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fe;-: 









MEMORIALS 



OP 



REBECCA JONES. 



COMPILED BY 



WILLIAM J. ALLINSON 



PntLADMLPHtA i ' 
HENRY LONGSTRETH. 

347 Market Street. 

LONDON: 
CHARLES GILPIN 






Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1849, by 

WILLIAM J, ALLINSON, 

In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the Eastern 

District of Pennsylvania. 



Stereotyped at Mogridge's Foundry. 
Printed by Smith & Peters. 



»-r^c New 



CONTENTS 



CHAPTER I. 



1739 — 1762. Introductory remarks. Her own account of her convince- 
ment and early life. Letter from 0. Peyton. She attends Yearly 
Meeting through ignorance of its select character. Is invited to 
meetings for discipline. Appears as a minister. Is acknowledged as 
such. Her mother's death. Is joined in the school by Hannah Cath- 
rall. Makes several visits from home. Death of Daniel Stanton. 
Further particulars of her early history. Interview with the Eng- 
lish Friends. ----- page 1 

CHAPTER II. 

1762 — 1783. Her character as a teacher. Anecdotes of John Riddle 
and children. Rules of the school. Letters to various persons. Let- 
ter from Elizabeth Sniith and sketch of her life. John Woolman to 
E. Smith. House in Drinker's Alley. Anecdote of John Woolman. 
Poetry by John Drinker. Opens her prospect for England. - - 21 

CHAPTER m. 

1784. Credentials for England. Embarcation. Anecdotes of S. Emlen, 
George Dillwyn, &c. Letter from Capt. Truxton. Reaches Liver- 
pool, London. C. Hustler joins her. Letter to H. Cathrall. Estab- 
lishment of Women's Yearly Meeting. Extracts from a curious 
Letter. -.-..-. 48 

CHAPTER IV. 

1784—1785. Contrast by Enoch Lewis between the state of our Soci- 
ety in R. J.'s day and in our own. She attends London Yearly Meet- 
ing and enters on her travels northward. Letter to and from various 
friends. Dream respecting John Reynell and its realization. Family 
visit at Bradford. Returns to London. Requests a meeting with her 
American fellow laborers. Anniversary of her arrival inadvertently 
kept. ....--. 67 



ii CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER V. Kf 

1785 — 1788. Gives up for Ireland. Various letters. Lands at Dublin 
where she visits families. Message from Captain Truxton. Family 
visits at Ballitoreand Catlids. Remarkable anecdote of George Dill- 
wyn. S. Grubb arrives. Visits families at Lisburn. Completes her 
labors in Ireland and returns to England. Sickness,' death and funeral 
of Thos. Ross. Labors in Wales. Family visit at York and at Leeds. 
Cedficate of Ireland Half Year's Meeting. Attends London Yearly 
Meeting. W. Mathews' testimony of the growth of her gift. Illness 
of C. Hustler and of S. Grubb. Visits families at Sheffield, Warns- 
worth, and High Wycombe. H. Cathrall's integrity in returning 50/. 
Certificate of London Yearly Meeting. Concern on account of Afri- 
cans. Attends London Yearly Meeting. Preparations to embark. 
Parting scenes. Tabular notes. - - - 105 

CHAPTER VL 

1788. Return voyage. Letters written on board the Pigou. Lands at 
Salem. Attends Woodbury Meeting, and proceeds to Philadelphia. 

149 

CHAPTER Vn. 

1788 — 1790. Attends closing sittings of Yearly Meeting and returns 
her certificates. Diary letter to J. P. Letter from S. Grubb. Pre- 
sent from pupils of Clonmell school. Parts with H. Cathrall and 
takes lodgings with James Goram. Letter to J. Williams. Visits 
the Yearly Meetings on Long Island and on Rhode Island. Letter to 
Dr. Cathrall and to other Friends. Sickness. Journey to Maryland. 

171 

CHAPTER Vm. 

1791. Decease of John Hustler and of Sarah R. Grubb. Letters. 
Visits Long Island, &c. - - . - . 189 

CHAPTER IX. 

Yellow Fever of '93. Death and character of Margaret Haines. Let- 
ter to her children. R. J. is ill with the fever. T. Scattergood's 
visits and notes. Assiduous attentions of Dr. Cathrall. Letters Fam- 
ily visit. ------- 205 

CHAPTER X. 

1794 — 1799. A young friend joins her family. R. J-'s last letter to E. 
Take. N. Wain's prospect for England. Visit in N. Jersey. Letter 
from S. Harrison. Death and character of Catherine Phillips. At- 



CONTENTS. iit 

tends New York Yearly Meeting. Letters. Establishment of West 
Town School and of Indian Committee. Letter from W. Savery. 
R. J. delivers his message in Monthly Meeting. Fever of '97. R. J., 
goes to Edgely. Death of Thamazin Clifford. Returns to Brook's 
Court. 218 



CHAPTER XI. 

1798^ — 1799. Description and character of Rebecca Jones. She sends 
for T. Harrison to rescue a captured Negress. Shipwreck and ar- 
rival of Mary Prior. S. Grellet acknowledged as a minister, 1798. 
Visits Rahway, &c. Attends Burlington Quarterly Meeting. Let- 
ters to and from Jane Snowdon. Goes to Edgely. Letters to Martha 
Allinson, &c. Change in time of Philadelphia Yearly Meeting. 

240 



CHAPTER XII. 

1799. Religious visit to New England, accompanied by Jane Snow- 
don. Character of Sarah Cresson and R. A. Rutter. Prophetic 
warning. Letters. Family visits, &c. Returns. Goes to Edge- 
ly." Interview with a Welsh convert. Arrival of S. Harrison and 
J. Hall. Incident in North Meeting. ... 259 

CHAPTER. XIIL 

1799 — 1801. Death of S. Emlen, senior, and his presentiment of it. 
Notice of S. Emlen, junior, and wife. Gervase Johnson. Letters. 
Stop in her mind against recruiting her shop. Death of J. Hartley 
and the intimation thereof afforded to her. Reflections on the source 
of such intimations. Rich Cheese. H. Barnard. - 276 

CHAPTER XIV. 

1802— -1804. Arrival of S. Stevenson and M. Jeffries, and death of the 
former. Lettters. Death of Hannah Price. Wm. Jackson. Re- 
tires to Edgely. Letters to James Allinson. Arrival of George 
Dillwyn. Returns to Brook's Court. Whale. R. J. and S. Smith 
in sympathy with Friends in England. - - - 293 

CHAPTER XV. 

1804. Death of Wm. Savery. Jacob Beck's lines on the occasion. 
Letters and notes. New Year's reflections 1805. Ann Alexander. 
Yearly Meeting. M. Routh sails for England. Letter to M. R. 
Dorothy Ripley. Death of B. Cathrall and wife, and Rachel Col- 
lins. Yellow Fever. Goes to Darby. Interesting letter to Mary 
Bevan. Returns to the Court. - - 309 



iv CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER XVI. 

1805—1813. Letter to M. Jeffries. Marriage of James and B. Allin- 
son. Letters to them. Eclipse and note by E. Lewis respecting it. 
Death of H. Cathrall. Painful circumstances. Letters. Goes to 
New York. Returns. Death of John Teas. Yearly Meeting. 
Death of K. Howell, James Simpson, C. Hustler and James AUinson. 
Letter to S. Hustler. Death of R. Wright. Mentions Susanna 
Home. ....... 324 

CHAPTER XVH. 

1813—1817. Typus Fever. Prayer. Green Street Meeting. Attends 
Twelfth Street Meeting. Is at North Meeting for the last time. 
Death of T. Scattergood and message to Susanna Home. Letter to 
Sarah Hustler. Intimation respecting S. Home's arrival in England. 
Warning to a Minister. Her last letter to S. Hustler. Bernice Al- 
linson's account of R. J.'s death. Reflections by Enoch Lewis. 
John Cox. Passages from her Will, and concluding Remarks. 344 



MEMORIALS 

OP 

REBECCA JONES. 



CHAPTER L 
1739--1762. 

Introductory remarks — Her own account of her convincement and early 
life — Letter from C. Peyton — She attends Yearly Meeting through 
ignorance of its select character — Is invited to meetings for discipline 
— Appears as a minister — Is acknowledged as such — Her mother's 
death — Is joined in the school by Hannah Cathrall — Makes several 
visits from home— Death of Daniel Stanton — Further particulars of 
h^r early history — Interview with the English Friends. 

INTRODUCTORY REMARKS. 

Truly was it said by Solomon, " The memory of the just is 
blessed." And whilst reverently bearing in mind that " none is 
good save One," itisadmitted to be both allowable and beneficial 
to commemorate his goodness by recording the examples of those 
who have been clothed upon with his righteousness, and made 
partakers with the saints in light. It is helpful to the pilgrim, to 
contemplate the steps of those who have walked with the 
Redeemer in the way cast up ; not for a servile imitation of par- 
ticular acts, but with a prayerful desire to be enabled to walk 
by the same spirit, to mind the same rule, and to adhere to 
the same principles of eternal truth which they illustrated and 
adorned. 

The papers of our beloved and highly gifted friend Rebecca 
Jones having been placed by her sole residuary legatee in the 
hands of the present Compiler, were in course of arrangement, 
with a view to ultimate publication. During a delay in the com- 

(1) 



2 MEMORIALS OF 

pilatlon, arising from causes not immediately to be obviated, 
anecdotes respecting her, with a small portion of her narrative, 
found their way to the press, in connexion with some in- 
accuracies. This, so far at least as the portion is con- 
cerned, which was strictly private .property, was regretted, 
yet it stimulated the Compiler to furnish to Friends' Review 
(a valuable Journal published in Philadelphia, and ably edited 
by Enoch Lewis) copious selections from the materials in his 
possession. 

Long after the compilation had been entered upon, the caution 
prefixed to the auto-biographical sketch with which the narrative 
commences, continued to operate as a bar to its publicity, on the 
mind of the proprietor of these manuscripts, by whom the 
memory of Rebecca Jones is most affectionately cherished, and 
her wishes and requests regarded almost as a binding law. This 
feeling of reluctance, altho' not removed, has in some degree 
given way to the following considerations : The wishes and views 
of judicious friends ; a conviction that the request originated in 
the writer's very humble estimate of herself, and in more private 
reasons the force of which has been weakened by Time ; and to 
the still weightier conviction, that our dear departed friend, was, 
in the constrainings of that love in which she was enabled to labor 
for the good of souls, led to pen this testimony to her Divine 
Master's gracious dealings ; and that, however undesirable the 
prospect might have been to her shrinking and sensitive mind, 
it is right at this time to extend the benefits of its perusal beyond 
the narrow circle within which it has been known. 

The publication above referred to, of the only part respecting 
which this scrupulous delicacy was felt, has assisted in deciding 
this point ; and it may be remarked that the other journals from 
which selections will be made, having been presented by Rebecca 
Jones to the friend referred to, without any such restriction, the 
responsibility is entirely removed from her of giving to the 
public any thing that was prohibited. 

The compiler himself, cherishing the most tender affection and 
reverence for the memory of his venerable friend, trusts that any 



REBECCA. JONES. 3 

incompetency or error of judgment on his part in arranging the 
materials before him, may not obscure the light of her example, 
or derogate from the dignity, beauty and excellence of a charac- 
ter, which can hardly be appreciated by those to whom she was 
not personally known. He had fondly hoped to throw the task 
upon a more competent hand, but it was found impossible, without 
going through the whole labor of editing the work, to place the 
materials intelligibly before a third person ; whilst motives of 
propriety and gratitude pressed upon himself the duty of dis- 
charging this debt to her memory. 

The size of the volume might have been lessened, by com- 
prising from the letters the merely narrative parts and giving 
them in a condensed form, but the compiler has desired to pre- 
sent the matter, when practicable, in her words rather than in 
his own, and it has been moreover his settled conviction, that 
these choice and instructive specimens of the epistolary style, 
would be both pleasant and profitable to the serious reader. He 
has in his possession a rich collection of letters to and from R. 
Jones, and while he regrets his inability to obtain many others, 
of especial value, which were sent on her decease to the families 
of her correspondents, he feels bound to acknowledge his indebt- 
edness to several friends, in England and elsewhere, for the kind 
loan of interesting letters.* The extent of her correspondence 
was truly astonishing, audit would, if collected, of itself form a 
larger work than is here presented. 

In deviating from the routine of a merely religious work, in 
the introduction of some sprightly, but, we trust never trifling 
passages and anecdotes, it has been the object and hope of the 
compiler, by adding to its attractiveness to the general reader, to 
extend its usefulness. He feels convinced moreover (indeed he 
has received reiterated assurance of this) that all minutiaB con- 
cerning R. Jones will interest those who vividly remember her. 
In hastening to share these interesting relics, with those of her 
former friends who may very soon be permitted to follow her, he 

* Particular acknowledgment is due to the representatives of C. 
Hustler, and E. Tuke, to James P. Parke, and to some others. 



4 MEMORIALS OF 

is influenced also by the hope that others, in contemplating the 
course, and perusing the experiences of this dignified handmaid 
of the Lord, may be stimulated to seek in faith of Him by whom 
alone any can come unto the Father, ability to walk in the same 
strait but Heaven-illumined path ; knowing that the principles of 
Truth which she found to be so precious, have not been subject 
to fluctuation, and that the crown of glory, which, we humbly 
trust, has been assigned to her, is reserved for all those, in every 
age, who love the appearing of our Lord and Saviour Jesus 
Christ. 



AUTOBIOGRAPHICAL. 

It is on my mind to leave a short account of my convince- 
ment, and the Lord's gracious dealings with me, a poor un- 
worthy creature even of the least of his mercies and of his 
Truth, for the perusal of some of my best and most intimate 
friends, and I desire that to such only it may be shown, and that 
it may not be made any further public. 

" Begin not to say within yourselves, we have Abraham to our Father : 
for I say unto you that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto 
Abraham." — Luke, iii. 8. 

" Give us help from trouble, for vain is the help of man." 

I was born in Philadelphia in the 7th month, 8th day, 1739. 
My parents' names were William and Mary Jones. My father 
leaving the city when I was an infant,* the care of my education, 
and that of my brother, who was nine years older than myself, 
devolved on my mother, who, by hard labor, keeping a school, 
brought us up reputably, gave us sufficient learning, and educated 
us in the way of the Church of England. 

Before I was twelve years of age, I often solicited my mother 

William Jones was a coaster — was much absent, and died from 
home. Rebecca did not remember him. 



REBECCA JONES. 5 

for liberty to go with some of the neighbors' children, who were 
Friends, to their meetings, with which she often complied, say- 
ing that I was but a child, and not capable of determining in 
matters of a religious nature, which, indeed, was really so ; yet 
I have abundant reason to believe that something of a Divine 
nature was then secretly at work in my tender mind, though I 
knew not by what name to call it, which, had I given way to it, 
would have preserved me, though but a child, from many things 
into which I afterwards fell, to the wounding of my poor soul, 
and making hard work in the cleansing, purifying day, that 
afterwards powerfully overtook me, and from which I could by 
no means escape. My mother would frequently say, " What 
do you go to meeting for ?" I being light and airy, would reply, 
" I don't know — but I believe they are a good people, and I like 
their way, for there is not so much rising up and sitting down 
among them as at church." And blessed be the God of my life, 
who thus gradually and secretly drew my mind towards this 
people — not only to go to their meetings — but I loved even the 
sight of an honest Friend. Yet I was at times under the influ- 
ence of another spirit ; for, though I loved this people, and very 
early saw a beautiful order and becoming deportment in their 
meetings, I could not give up my days to lead such a life of 
self-denial as the Divine Instructor in my own breast at times 
directed me to. But I loved vanity and folly, and to keep un- 
profitable company, by which I was led into many evils, and 
quenched the blessed spirit from time to time — yet not wholly, 
for oftentimes in the midst of my career, I was favored with its 
secret smitings, and from which it was impossible to flee: and 
frequently, when in bed, or alone, my heart was made uneasy 
for the multitude of my transgressions, so that I often promised 
to amend, for I greatly feared to die. But Alas ! though I made 
covenant, I soon forgot it and returned to the same things for 
which I had been reproved, and thus added sin to rebellion for 
some time. 

Yet I kept close to meetings, both first and week days, when 
I could get away without my mother's knowledge, though I knew 



6 MEMORIALS OF 

not why I went, for I liked not their way of preaching, but was 
always best pleased with silent meetings. 

In the year 1754, and in the 16th year of my age, there came 
from old England on a religious visit to the churches of Christ in 
America, Catharine Peyton, in company with Mary Piesly, from 
Ireland. I was at clivers meetings in this city with the aforesaid 
Friend, and heard divers testimonies which she bore, with which 
I was much pleased ; but like many others, I only heard, and 
sought not to learn the way to salvation in sincerity. But, for 
ever blessed and praised be the great Minister of all ministers, 
and Bishop of souls, who in his abundant compassion to a poor 
creature in the very road that leads to the chambers of death, 
was graciously pleased through his handmaid to set my state 
and condition open before me, and who enabled her, in one of 
our first-day evening meetings, to speak so pertinently to my 
situation, in showing the consequences of trifling with Divine 
conviction, and proclaiming God's love through Christ to all re- 
turning sinners, that I cried out in the bitterness of my heart, 
" Lord, what wilt thou have me do to be saved ?" And so 
effectually was my heart reached, that I was made willing to for- 
sake everything here to obtain peace ; yea, my natural life would 
not have been too great an offering, if it had been required, that 
I might have inherited eternal salvation. 

Oh, the many days of sorrow and nights of deep distress that 
I passed through ; how frequently did I cry out, " Lord, save 
me or I perish !" I almost despaired of finding mercy, for sin 
not only appeared exceeding sinful, but my soul's enemy almost 
persuaded me that my sins were of so deep a dye, and so oflen 
repeated, that I had neglected the day of my visitation, and that, 
though I might, like Esau, seek the blessing with tears, I should 
not obtain it. 

But, forever magnified be the kindness and goodness of the 
Lord my God, the everlasting Father, he left me not here, though 
I was in the situation described by the Prophet. I was greatly 
polluted — lay wallowing in the filthiness of the flesh, without 
any succor from temporal connections, and a stranger to the 



REBECCA JONES. 7 

Lord's family — " Not washed at all, nor salted at all, but cast 
out as in an open field, void of any enclosure ; none eye pitied 
me, to do any of these things to me." When the sure Helper 
passed by, he beheld me in my deplorable situation, cast his 
mantle of Divine love over me, and "with a most powerful voice 
said, LIVE — yea, he said unto me— LIVE. 

I was again encouraged by the renewal of divine favor to 
enter into solemn covenant with that gracious Being against 
whom I had so highly rebelled, and whom I had so justly of- 
fended ; and fervent were the breathings of my soul, that I 
might be enabled to stick close to the terms made in this the 
day of my humiliation. 

My love to this instrument in the Lord's hand was very great ; 
and on a certain time, being reduced very low in my mind, under 
the consideration of my many and deep transgressions, I took 
up my pen and opened a little of my condition to her, though I 
was afraid to sign my name to it. I watched an opportunity 
and slipped it into her hand, just as she was going into meeting, 
and in two days after received, per the hands of one of her 
friends, the following answer, which, as it had a blessed effect in 
encouraging my mind reverently to confide in the Lord's infinite 
mercy, I here transcribe at large. Peradventure it may revive 
the hope of some afilicted soul. 

" Philadelphia. \th mo. 1st, 1755. 

Dear Child, — I have carefully read thy letter, and, from a 
tenderness of spirit which I feel towards thee, conceive much 
hope that thou wilt do well, if thou keep to that Power which 
has visited thee. Which, as it has already appeared as a light 
to convince thee of sin, will, if thou wilt suffer it, destroy it in 
thy heart. Which dispensation being already begun, is the rea- 
son of that anguish of spirit which thou feelest, which will lessen 
gradually, as thou art assisted to overcome. 

" And be not too much discouraged, neither at what thou hast 
committed against the Lord, nor at what thou mayest have to 
suffer for him ; for though thy sins may have been as scarlet, he 
is able and willing to make thy heart as snow, upon thy sincere 



8 MEMORIALS OF 

repentance and humble walking in His fear, and also to give thee 
strength to do whatsoever he commands thee. 

" If thou art willing and obedient for the future, thou shalt eat 
the good of the land in the Lord's time, and, as thou hast already 
been instructed that ' thou shalt only receive consolation as thou 
art fit for it,' wait patiently, and let the administration of con- 
demnation be perfected, — so shall the administration of Light and 
Peace be more clear and strong : which will assuredly come upon 
thee, if thou abidest faithful to that Power which has visited thee. 

*' Thou desiredst me to explain some portions of scripture to 
thee, which I had to mention, which I am willing to do as far as 
the mentioning of them concerns thy state : which I believe was- 
te awake watchfulness and care over thy conduct, that thy soul 
may bring forth the fruits of purity and love to God, which will 
be manifested only by thy obedience, and that thou may not rest 
in anything short of the knowledge of His Power, revealed in thy 
heart as a refiner and teacher, nor place thy happiness in any- 
thing short of his salvation. 

" I go out of town to-morrow, and not knowing thy name by 
thy letter, know not how to get to speak to thee ; and have there- 
fore committed the care of this to A. Benezet,* who, I believe, 
will use his utmost endeavors to convey it to thee. 

"Farewell ; and may the Lord continue to bless thee. I con- 
clude, in much haste, thy sympathizing friend, 

Catharine Peyton. 

" P. S. I had rather thou kept this to thyself; and be sure, 
be careful how thou tellest thy condition to such who have no 
knowledge of it." 

On the receipt and reading of this letter my heart was melted 
into great tenderness before the Lord, and my mind encouMged 
to trust in his boundless mercy, thus extended to me, a poor, un- 
worthy creature. My resolutions were daily strengthened, in 
remembering that " at what time soever the wicked turneth from 

* This letter was not forwarded to her by Anthony Benezet, but by 
another friend, as will be explained in the next chapter. 



I 



REBECCA JONES. 9 

his wickedness, and doelh that which is lawful and right, he shall 
save his soul alive." 

T now attended meetings constantly, though I suffered some 
hard things on that account. I rejoiced when meeting day came ; 
yea, the evening before meeting day my mind seemed under the 
preparing power, for the solemn performance of Divine worship ; 
of the necessity whereof I was now fully convinced, as also of 
my unfitness therefor without the renewal and daily influence of 
the blessed Spirit. The heart- tendering power of Truth in a 
very singular manner attended, insomuch that if I was not in the 
enjoyment thereof, my meeting seemed in vain. I frequently 
compared my situation about this time with that of the children 
of solid Friends, many of whom, I perceived, walked widely from 
their holy profession. I thought if I had been favored with priv- 
ileges like those which many of them enjoyed, I had not had so 
much work for repentance. Oh, that they did but see and rightly 
understand the manifold obligations they are under to the Ever- 
lasting Father, and also to their pious parents. Oh, the un- 
speakable advantage of an early education in virtue and the fear 
of the Lord ! Certainly in the great day of decision it will but add 
to the weight in the scale against those who pursue lying vani- 
ties, forsake their own mercies, and rebelliously turn their backs 
on the admonitions, counsel and instruction of tender, pious, 
heart-aching parents ! I esteemed myself as a branch broken 
off from the wild olive, and grafted into the good olive tree, and 
was secretly instructed that I stood by faith, and that the good- 
ness of God would be toward me while I continued in his fear : 
otherwise I should be cut off. I often fervently desired that 
those who had erred and strayed among the youth (whom I com- 
pared to the natural branches of the good olive tree) might be 
grafted in again — " for God is able to graft them in again." " Be 
not high-minded, but fear," was the solemn admonition frequently 
sounded in the ears of my soul. 

It is not in my mind to particularize everything that fell to 
my lot, not only from some in near connection with me, but also 
from my former acquaintance, to whom I now seemed estranged ; 



10 MEMORIALS OF 

and many were their bitter invectives and hard speeches liber- 
ally thrown out against me. Yet thus far I may say of a truth, 
greater was that power which had visited me, and was in a de- 
gree in me, than these mine enemies that were in and of the 
world. To the praise of my gracious Benefactor be it spoken, 
the more I suffered in thus turning my back on all those things 
which in time past I so greatly delighted in, the more my strength 
increased, and my resolutions were confirmed to serve the Lord 
the little time that remained to me in this life, which I then often 
thought would not be long. 

In the Spring of the year 1756, my aforesaid friend, C. Pey- 
ton, embarked with her before-named companion, M. Piesley, 
Samuel Fothergill, (who had also performed a religious visit to 
Friends on this continent,) Samuel Emlen, of this city, &c., and 
set sail for Europe. Soon after their departure I found an indif- 
ference towards meetings gradually coming on, and the enemy 
of my soul's happiness sorely buffeted me. He suggested to me 
that my repentance was vain, (it was not godly) my tears were 
insincere, and that I was most certainly under a great delusion. 
And the Lord, my only Helper in this night of probation, saw 
meet in his wisdom, for the trial of my faith, to hide his face 
from me. Thus spake the deceiver : " Why art thou thus ? 
surely if thou wert the visited of God, he would not have left 
thee thus poor, stripped and helpless. Thou art not on tlie right 
foundation ; for if the Lord had been at all with thee, he would 
have remained with thee for ever." Oh the grief and distress 
of my poor soul ! The Divine presence was withdrawn, and I 
had no friend on earth to speak to, nor any to whom I could 
make my complaint. Yet I was favored under all, with strength 
to pray that I might be favored to see clearly from whence this 
distress and doubting arose. And, blessed be the God of my life, 
who, though I thought him far off, was near, and had only with- 
drawn as behind the curtain ; he heard and graciously answered 
in the needful hour. I resolved if I perished to perish at his feet. 
And thus spake my only friend and alone helper : " I will tho- 
roughly purge thy dross, and take away all thy tin." My soul 



REBECCA JONES. IJ 

replied, amen, so be it, blessed Lord ! Here I could feelingly 
say as did David : " I know, oh Lord, that thy judgments are 
right, and that thou in faithfulness hast afflicted me !" Hope re- 
vived as an helmet of salvation ; I saw mine accuser and he fled ! 
Oh, my soul, forget not thou the loving kindness of thy God, 
who thus graciously appeared for thy help; not only when the 
floods of the ungodly made thee afraid, but when in close com- 
bat with the Prince of the power of the air, the Lord's arm 
brought salvation, and his right arm got the victory. 

My love again was renewed for -the Lord's people; and, al- 
though through much difficulty and strong opposition, I attended 
meetings, both first and week days, and should have rejoiced had 
I been worthy to sit in meetings for discipline, a privilege not 
yet granted me ; I frequently went to monthly and quarterly 
meetings and staid the first sitting, but withdrew when Friends 
entered on business. I knew I had no right to stay longer — 
besides, in one of the yearly meetings for business I was desired 
to withdraw by a friend whom I afterwards dearly loved ;* and 
though I left the meeting under much distress, (being at that 
time very low in mind,) yet no hardness got in, blessed be the 
Lord ; my love rather increased, not only to this mother in Is- 
rael, but to the whole flock; and I admired the care used to 
keep such meetings quite select : I saw that it was necessary to 
do so, and never afler attempted to stay till I was invited by some 
who I thought tenderly loved me, and were authorized to do 
it. And here I would mention the observation I made of some 
of our youth after I was favored to sit in meetings for business. 
I frequently looked at them with love and tenderness, but ad- 

* During the Yearly Meeting of 1755, R, J. went to one of the sittings, 
not being aware that our order required such meetings to be select. — 
Finding her accustomed seat occupied, she went up stairs, but seeing 
so many plain Friends, she felt uneasy, and as if she had no business 
there : which feeling was increased as she noticed a whispering near 
the clerk's table. Catharine Kallender, leaving her seat, went up stairs 
and sat by her; and seeing R. about to rise, she laid her hand npon her 
kindly, and presently they both went out, when Catharine informed her 
that those meetings were exclusively for members, but that she believed 
the time was not distant when it would be proper for her to attend 
them. 



12 xMEMORIALS OF 

mired to see so little sense appear among them of the nature and 
design ofsuch meetings. I found that many attended through curi- 
osity, and some from other motives : but very few whose shoulders 
were preparing for the burden of exercise that lay weightily on 
divers mothers in the family, who were far advanced in years, 
and in all probability would ere long finish their course. I mourn- 
ed at the prospect of a succession, and wished that the spirit of Eli- 
jah might rest on Elisha. At these seasons I often felt a holy zeal 
to cover my spirit, and an engagement sometimes attended that 
the Lord's work might go on and prosper. But, in that weak 
state, I concluded, that if the youth would not come up to the help 
of the Lord, (I mean children of believing parents,) the cause 
would drop. Yet I was sometimes favored to understand the Lord's 
proclamation, " I will work, and who shall let it." Very fre- 
quently I was seized with an apprehension that, if I was faithful 
to the manifestations of Divine grace, the baptizing influences 
thereof would be witnessed for the cleansing, purifying, and pre- 
paring my spirit, rightly to engage in the Lord's work : at which 
my heart trembled within me, and I very much feared I should 
push Uzzah like. And, though in meetings both for worship 
and discipline, my duty was often pointed out to me, yet, the fear 
of marring the Lord's work, a sense of my own weakness, the 
situation in which I was placed in the world, the prospect of 
much suffering awaiting me, but, above all, a sense of the purity 
and stability necessary for those who fight the Lord's battles, 
and a sight of my own state and lonesome condition in the fam- 
ily ; I say all these things mightily humbled me, and reduced 
me to the brink of the grave. I went alone — I kept silence — I 
refrained from my natural food, and my sleep departed from me. 
" I was stricke^of God and afflicted." In this situation I at- 
tempted several times to break my mind to some Friends by writ- 
ing, and to let them know how it was with me — but was al- 
ways stopped from doing so; and once, when I went to the 
house of an honest-hearted, faithful servant of the Lord, with an 
intention to open my case to him, the ear of my soul was sa- 
luted with this prohibition : "See thou doit not — the work is the 



REBECCA JONES. 13 

Lord's." My mind was fervent with the^Lord, (than whom none 
else knew my condition,) that he would be pleased to favor me 
with the distinct sight and knowledge of his will, that I might 
not be deceived by the enemy of my soul — whom I had before 
seen in some of his artful transformations — but that light might 
so attend as that I might make no mistake in darkness. I car- 
ried my burden from one month to another, and from meeting 
to meeting, until the vth month 9th, 1758, in an evening meet- 
ing, finding no excuse would longer do, and that faithfulness 
was required, after William Prickett had finished a lively testi- 
mony, in which he expressed much sympathy and had great en- 
couragement for some who were under preparation for the Lord's 
service, I stood up in great fear and trembhng, and expressed a 
few sentences very brokenly. I returned home with the prom- 
ised reward of peace, which I had long sought in vain, but, now 
that I had given up to the Lord's will, was favored to obtain it. 
This was my first public appearance, and I greatly desired as a 
sign, that if I was yet mistaken, I might be visited and advised 
by some Friends. But as I met with no opposition from Friends, 
and as, contrariwise, some spake encouragingly to me, I found 
need to watch myself with a jealous eye, and was fervent in spirit 
that I might be preserved in true humility and Divine fear, the 
only safe situation for a gospel minister. 

And now I found it my place to make a stand against some 
things in some of my near relatives, with which before I had no 
unity. And, blessed be God, my best friend, I was helped to 
overcome both in myself and others, some inconsistencies which 
I plainly saw Truth disallowed of. 

Hitherto I had met with much opposition in attending meet- 
ings ; but the Lord plead my cause, and inclined the heart of my 
dear mother toward me, so that she not only gave me liberty in 
that respect, but was very affectionate, both to me and to Friends 
when they came to our house ; and she continued so till her 
decease. For which my soul was made humbly thankful, and 
it was no small confirmation to me that the Lord was on my 

2 



14 MEMORIALS OF 

side. '• What shall I reader to the Lord for all his benefits !" 
was the honest language of my mind. 

In the year 1760, I had the privilege granted me to sit in the 
meeting of ministers and elders, of which I thought myself very 
unworthy; and I attended the first meeting of this sort under 
strong apprehensions of my own weakness, and the necessity of 
laboring after true humility. 

In the spring of the year 1761, my dear mother began to 
decline very fast in her health, and could scarcely keep about 
house. She grew weaker and weaker, insomuch that she needed 
constant attendance all the summer. I had a large school on 
my hands to take care of, (the only means for our subsistence,) 
and her to nurse both night and day, till the 9th month, when 
she grew so ill that I was obliged to break up the school. I also 
was much reduced in my health, and, by such constant exercise, 
both of body and mind, received a weakness that I fear I shall 
never be rid of. 

She deceased near the end of the 9th month, 1761. And 
here I am free to add that she was a woman of good natural 
understanding — of a noble disposition — had many good quali- 
ties — lived a peaceable life among her neighbors — and, I have 
good ground to believe, was under a rehgious exercise of mind 
for many months before her decease. She was favored with an 
easy passage, for which during her illness she often prayed, as 
a sign of acceptance with the Lord ; and was buried in the 
burial ground of the Church of England, (so called,) among 
whom she always made profession. 

In her illness she desired to see Daniel Stanton. He came, 
and had a heart-tendering time in supplication, particularly on 
her account, (whom he had known from a young woman,) that 
she might be favored with patience, and might obtain mercy 
with the Lord. After which she seemed easy, and said he was 
a servant of the living God. , 

Now I was in a strait : for I had often thought that if it should 
please Providence to remove my mother, I would think of some 
other way than keeping school for a livelihood. But as our 



REBECCA JONES. 15 

Yearly Meeting was coming on, I concluded to leave it till that 
was over, and in waiting to knov/ what was best, I seemed easy 
to continue in the same way, as being what I was most used to : 
and a suitable friend offering, made it the easier. This was 
Hannah Cathrall,a religious, prudent young woman, who joined 
me in the business. I esteemed this a favor from kind Provi- 
dence, for I was now grown so weakly that I could not have 
undertaken it alone, and she was of an affectionate disposition 
towards me. We soon had a large school, and were blest with 
a sufficiency to live comfortably. I had been very little abroad, 
not only because I was confined by business, but I was under 
great discouragement in my ov/n mind, on account of my weak- 
ness both of body and mind. But whenever my aforesaid com- 
panion apprehended I was under any engagement of that sort, 
she always encouraged me, and did all in her power to make 
things as easy as she could, for which I feel grateful acknow- 
ledgments and esteem for her. In 1762, I went in company with 
E. Smith of Burlington, and some other friends, to the General 
Meeting held at Shrewsbury ; and after that, at different times, 
with Esther White, Mary Evans, Hannah Harrison, &c., several 
little turns, to some Quarterly, Monthly, and particular meetings, 
within the compass of our Yearly Meeting. 

In 1769, I found a draught of love in my mind towards the 
Yearly Meeting on Long Island, and obtained leave of our 
second day morning meeting of ministers and elders. I made 
preparation and was in readiness ; but, when the time came, my 
mind was so beclouded and distressed that I was glad to give it 
up. The cause afterward appeared very plain to me, and I was 
made thankful for the secret intelligence afforded from on high. 

In 1770, the engagement for that meeting was renewed, and 
my friend Hannah Foster, of Evesham, having sent me word 
that she intended going there, I gave up, and though much dis- 
couraged, being poorly in my health, and not used to ride on 
horseback, yet I was favored to hold it pretty well as far as Rah- 
way, where my kind friends, Joseph Shotwell and wife, provided 
a chair for my accommodation, and went with us to Flushing. 



Ig MEMORIALS OF 

I was much assisted in this journey, or I could not have held 
out, for I was not only indisposed in body, but my mind was 
very low, insomuch that I apprehended I should not live to re- 
turn, and accordingly settled my outward affairs and took a 
very solemn leave of my dear companion, who was also fearful 
on my account. However, the Lord was near — blessed be his 
name — and made the weak strong. We were mutually com- 
forted together at that meeting, and I returned home better every 
way ; for which I bow before the Almighty, and acknowledge 
that nothing is impossible with him. Praised and magnified be 
his great name, both now and forever ! 

Soon after my return my mind was bowed very low, by reason 
that a. beloved friend and father in the truth, Daniel Stanton, 
was taken from works to rewards. He had been eminently 
favored in his public appearances for many months before, inso- 
much that m^any Friends were apprehensive of what he some- 
times expressed as his belief, " that he had not many days 
longer to labor among us." This was a great stripping to the 
church, and a near trial to many individuals, and the loss was 
not likely to be soon made up. Such was the prospect of things 
among us. Yet there were still left some honest laborers, and a 
remnant clothed with the same spirit of true zeal, which was the 
covering of this great and good man, who deceased the 28th of 
6th month, 1770, in the 62d year of his age, and who had dis- 
interestedly labored among us upwards of 40 years — approving 
himself called of God, a workman that needed not to be ashamed, 
rightly dividing the word to every class in the family. " Pre- 
cious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints." 

[Here ends the autobiographical sketch which she probably 
designed resuming.] 



The mother of Rebecca Jones, as has been mentioned in tht: 
preceding memoir, kept a school for small children. She had 
subjected herself to many privations, in order that she might 



, REBECCA JONES. I7 

give Rebecca a good education, being ambitious to make her a 
teacher of the first standing in Philadelphia. As this precious 
young person yielded obedience to the Divine Monitor, she found 
herself restricted in various ways, and restrained from indulging 
in and teaching to others, the lighter and merely ornamental 
branches, as dancing and music, and ornamental needle-work. 

This, being a blight to her mother's fond and ambitious pros- 
pects, introduced Rebecca into severe trials and close provings 
of her faith, from the treatment which she experienced from her 
parent, who now opposed her attending the meetings of Friends. 
Her conflict of soul became so great that she did not hold inter- 
course with any one, and the Bible to her was a sealed book, so 
that she did not dare to resort to it for consolation. 

Let no one suppose, however, that she at any time under- 
valued the sacred volume, (in the perusal of which she was dili- 
gent through life, and earnest in enforcing the duty upon others,) 
although at the time of which we write, instrumental means were 
withheld ; she being, under the immediate power of the great 
Teacher of his people, preparing for a service, the true qualifi- 
cation for which must be directly received from and renewed by 
the alone unfailing Source of help. 

She went to meeting when she could get away, although she 
knew that unkindness awaited her on her return. On one occa- 
sion, coming down stairs with her bonnet and cloak on, her 
mother took hold of the latter to detain her. She untied the 
string and walked out, leaving her mother in silent astonishment ; 
but she felt condemnation and could not enjoy her meeting. Her 
mother, however, never again attempted to detain her by force. 

During this state of things, her brother Daniel, who was nine 
years her senior, and who resided in Mount Holly, made them a 
visit, and their mother poured out to him her troubles and mor- 
tification on Rebecca's account, representing how much money 
slie had spent upon her education, which was now, in her esti- 
mation, all wasted, and expressing her desponding feelings 
relative to their being able to obtain a maintenance. He 
enquired whether she was not dutiful and kind to her, and obe- 

2* 



18 MEMORIALS OF 

dient in everything except what she apprehended to be connected 
with her religious duty. The mother replied that she had never 
been so kind and dutiful, and that she was only disobedient in 
relation to things with which she professed to be uneasy on 
religious grounds. " Then, mother," replied he, " let her alone — 
if it is of herself it will soon come to nought, but if it is of the 
Lord, all that you can do will not prevent it."* 

It was about this time that she placed in the hands of Catha- 
rine Peyton (afterwards Phillips) the letter to which reference is 
made in her own narrative, page 7. It will be noticed that 
Catharine in her reply proposes to entrust it to the care of 
Anthony Benezet. But, having written her answer, she read 
Rebecca's letter to Daniel Trotter, who was a near neighbor to 
Mary Jones, and had been her fellow passenger in a voyage 
from the West Indies. " I do not know," said Daniel, " who it 
can be, without it's that wild Becky Jones, who has got to com- 
Kig to meeting and sits by black Rose." This Rose was a 
goodly colored woman, who sat on a bench near the door, and 
Rebecca in her humility, occupied the vacant seat beside her. 
He was so assured of the correctness of his surmise, that he un- 
dertook to deliver Catharine's letter. One afternoon, at the 
close of school, Rebecca was sitting with her mother at the door, 
and seeing D. Trotter approach, she was much agitated lest he, 
being a Friend, should be unkindly treated on her account. He, 
however, frankly addressed Mary Jones, and conversed pleasantly 
about their voyage, taking no notice of Rebecca, till, as he was 
going, he shook hands with her, leaving the letter in her hand. 
She kept it for two days before she had any opportunity to read 
it in private, and then ripped a seam in her skirt, and concealed 
the letter in the quilting, as her pockets, drawers, &c., were 
frequently searched. 

Being selected as bridesmaid by her friend Hannah Zane, at 
the time of her nuptials with John Pemberton, the bride o^ffered 
to present to her a dress of ric^h silk, (then a very costly arti- 

tThis brother died lOth mo., 1771 — aged 40 years. 



REBECCA JONES. 19 

cle,) with which R. J. was pleased at the moment — but her 
mind became uneasy, and soon settled in the conviction that her 
safety consisted in being content with mean things. During her 
whole life, she never wore a silk dress — though she had no dis- 
position to judge the liberty of others in this respect, or to fix 
upon them her individual scruple. Thus early humbling herself, 
she became meet for the exaltation and dignity designed for her 
by her gracious Master, and. although, during a large portion of 
her life, she was treated by " the household of faith" with a 
degree of consideration and deference which very few could 
receive without injury, instead of being thereby puffed up and 
lifted from the foundation, she seemed to be the more deepened in 
the conviction that the Lord is everything, and that she was 
nothing, and from time to time, (to use her own expression) to 
" centre in my old position as an unprofitable servant." 

The English Friends to whom reference has been made, 
after an absence from the city, returned to attend the 
Yearly Meeting; and being at the house of Catharine 
Kallender, in Front street, nearly opposite the end of the 
alley in which Rebecca lived, they expressed a desire to 
have her company, and C. Kallender's daug?iter Hannah, who 
had been Mary Jones' pupil, (and intimate with Rebecca until 
she withdrew from all companionship,) was sent to invite her. 
Hannah walked backward and forward across the end of the 
alley, occasionally beckoning to Rebecca, who sat by the 
window. R. J. at length asked her mother's permission to join 
her young friend, which was rather ungraciously given. Han- 
nah then told her that the English Friends wished her to take 
tea with them. She was now in a strait, whether to avail her- 
self of the liberty already given, or to risk a refusal from her 
mother. But, feeling best satisfied to act in deference to parental 
authority, she asked leave to take tea at their neighbor's. Re- 
becca was emaciated from the trials and conflicts through which 
it had been her lot to pass, being, to quote her own touching 
description already given, "stricken of God and afflicted:" and 
her mother, who possibly already began to relent, gave permis- 



20 MEMORIALS OF 

sion. She went, but, considering herself unworthy and insig- 
nificant, she felt as though it were intrusive to place herself in 
the company of such worthies. She was, however, well repaid 
by the comfort and consolation which she derived from those 
dear friends, with whom she had not before spoken. It is not 
known that she ever related the above circumstances more than 
once, when with much feeling, in the latter part of her life, she 
communicated them to one who had for many years been to her 
as a daughter, saying, that she could not write a full account 
of her earlier days without speaking of her mother as a child 
ought not to speak of a parent. Many years, however, having 
now elapsed, and the reasons for privacy being lessened by 
time, it is believed that a condensed statement of these facts, in 
connection with some selections from her notes and corres- 
pondence, may tend to the comfort and edification of some sin- 
cere minds, and that in this view they ought not longer to be 
suppressed. 

The difficulty with her parent did not entirely cease, till, in 
1760, the church had acknowledged her gift in the ministry 
of the Word : when a committee of two men and two women was 
appointed to acquaint her with the conclusion to which her 
friends had come. These Friends hesitated about going to Re- 
becca's residence, and thought of communicating with her by 
letter : — but solidly considering the subject, they were most 
easy to go in person, and share with her whatever was to be 
borne on the occasion. The interview was in the presence 
of Mary Jones, and, after a time of social intercourse, a season 
of silence ensued, in which the object of the visit was stated. 
After their departure, her mother said to her — "Your friends 
have done all that they can for you — they have placed you 
upon the pinnacle ; now take heed to your steps, for if you fall, 
great indeed will be the fall." From this time they lived har- 
moniously ; her mother became reconciled to her being a Friend, 
and her natural disposition seemed softened. The school in- 
creased, and afforded them a comfortable maintenance ; and, 
after the decease of her mother, she entered into the business 



REBECCA JONES. 21 

of teaching more extensively, in connecfion with Hannah 
Cathrall, the latter attending to the sewing department in a 
separate room. 



CHAPTER II. 
1762—1783. 

Her character as a teacher — Anecdotes ot John Riddle and children — 
Rules of the school — Letters to various persons — Letter from Eliza- 
beth Smith and sketch of her life — John Woolman to E. Smith — 
House in Drinker's Alley — Anecdote of John Woolman — Poetry by 
John Drinker — Opens her prospect for England. 

It might be laid down as an axiom, that none but a philan- 
thropist is fit for the office of a teacher. Its responsibilities 
would be poorly wielded by him who should perform the task 
solely as a mode of acquiring the means of subsistence. R. J. 
had remarkable quahfications for imparting knowledge, for 
training the youthful mind, developing its powers, alluring it 
into the paths of true pleasantness and peace, and superintending 
the progress of a " religious, guarded education." Having, as we 
have seen in the commencement of her career, made covenant 
by sacrifice, she was not likely to be guided in her vocation by 
mercenary motives ; on the contrary, she performed the service 
with good will and in singleness of heart, " as to the Lord and 
not to men." She was moreover possessed of a commanding 
dignity, and a facility for enforcing salutary discipline, which 
enabled her to illustrate the Apostle's injunction to Timothy, 
'^ let no man despise thee." Thus she was eminently successful 
ns a preceptor, obtaining a hold not only upon the affections and 
respect of her pupils, but also upon the confidence of their 
parents ; so that she was often applied to by some of these to 
aid them with advice in important movements in life, in framing 
their wills, and in various ways. In such cases, though diffident 
of her own powers, she was a kind, ready and wise counsellor. 



22 MEMORIALS OF 

Among her pupils were the daughters of John Riddle, a Dutch 
tailor, who, during the Revolution, worked for the British 
officers. Two of them Polly and Rose, having completed their 
education,* the eldest, who wrote an elegant hand, was his book- 
keeper. When he wished to place his youngest child under her 
care, she objected, on account of some scruples relative to the 
mode of payment. The exact nature of these scruples, we can- 
not with absolute certainty explain, but his funds came from the 
officers, — and the following note by the Editor of Friend's 
Review, will suffice to give the general reader a sufficient in- 
sight. " It is not easy at the present day to appreciate the 
difficulty to which Friends were exposed, during the revolution- 
ary contest. No inconsiderable portion of the circulating 
medium consisted of bills of credit, issued for the express pur- 
pose of meeting the expenses of the war. The payments of the 
British officers, were indeed, made in solid coin ; but, under the 
circumstances of the time, it is not strange that Rebecca Jones 
should hesitate, on religious or prudential grounds, at receiving 
a pupil whose education was to be paid for out of money sent to 
this country to aid in the prosecution of the then existing war." 

One evening, whilst R. J. was enjoying the company of her 
friend Sarah Wistar, John Riddle came in to plead his cause, 
and strongly depicted the benefits his elder girls had derived. 
"Dere is mine Polly, dat you did larn to write and to cypher. 
I did send home General Howe's clothes mit de bill, — and 
when he come to pay it he say, " Why Johnny, did you write 
dis?" — (holding the bill in his hand.) I say, no, it is mine 
Polly's writing. " Your Polly !" say he — " Where did she 
larn to write so goot?" and I say, why she larnt of Becky 
Jones. "Who is Becky Jones?" — say he— Why dont you 
know Becky Jones the Quaker Preacher? — I told him she had 



* When application was first made for these elder children, the 
school was full, but so earnest was the father that he procured desks 
for them and brought them to the school room, — and thus obtained ad- 
mission. Is not his zeal for the right education of his children worthy 
of imitation 1 



REBECCA JONES. 23 

never gone to any other school, &;c. Thus he went on to show 
his estimate of the value of her instructions, — and, being fully 
informed of R. J.'s objections, he said that she might, in 
payment, take from his shop any thing that she wanted, and 
give her friends orders upon him. "Oh, you 7nust take mine 
Sally" — he continued — " mine Sally wont give you mooch 
trouble — mine Sally is a goot gal — she shtole her Daddy's 
hearts." R. J.'s guest joined in urging his suit, offering to aid 
in taking out the debt. Some of the articles thus taken out, are 
before us as we write. 

The child was admitted into the school. She was so small 
that her teacher placed a stool upon the bench to enable her to 
reach the desk. She proved to be a very good child. 

Before leaving, John took from his ample pocket a blank copy 
book. " I wants you to write mine will in dis." Rebecca 
sought to excuse herself, lest some difficulty should result from 
her ignorance of legal forms and technicalities. " Oh, I dont mean 
what I shall do with mine money — but dat mine children shall 
be -goot to dere mammy, and give her every ting dat she want. 
I want them to remember when I'm dead and gone — dat she's 
been a good mammy to them — You knows how to say it, petter 
as I can tell you." R. J. wrote for him, to his full satisfaction, 
on a loose paper, a letter of paternal advice to his children. 

This whole family, parents and children, died in the fever 
of 1793. Sally, (then a religious minded young woman,) was 
the last survivor. During the illness of the family, a colored 
man went daily as messenger between her and a friend similarly 
circumstanced, bearing notes in which they exchanged accounts 
of the progress of disease in their respective houses. These 
billets sometimes consisted of but a single line, and sometimes 
expanded with a highly interesting interchange of their religious 
feelings and experience, and most plaintive references to neigh- 
boring families, and to their own loved and lost ones, whom 
they could not bury out of their sight. Her friend also died in 
the fever of the same year. 

The following rules for the observance of her pupils in school 



Zi MEMORIALS OF 

and elsewhere, were conspicuously placed in R. J.'s school 
room ; and whilst they may fail to interest some readers who 
liave not been similarly engaged, they will probably commend 
themselves to a sufficient number to warrant their introduction. 
The mind of the candid reader will be carried back to the time 
in which they were written ; and whilst it would be unreasonable 
to expect to see them, in every respect, such as would now be 
framed, it will be well, in judging of them, to reflect what 
dignified characters were trained under their strict admin- 
istration. 

Rules of conduct for girls at school, <^c. 

1st. Never absent yourselves from school, unless good reasons can 
be assigned, to the satisfaction of your mistress. 

2d. Be always silent at your business, so that your voices shall not 
be heard, unless when you are saying your lessons, or speaking to 
your mistress ; hold no discourse with your schoolmates during the 
hours of business, without your mistress's permission, unless to ask 
something relating to your learning, which must be done in a low 
voice. 

3d. Make all your speeches to your mistress with due respect, ob- 
serving cheerfully to perform her directions with dispatch, according 
to your ability. If a stranger should speak to you, give a modest and 
ready answer, standing up and turning your faces towards them respect- 
fully, taking your seats again, and silently apply to your business. 

4th. Behave yourselves always in an humble, obliging manner to 
your schoolmates, never provoking one another, contending or com- 
plaining about frivolous matters, but courteously use the word please, 
or some soft and obliging expression, when you ask anything one of 
the other; and observe to make some grateful return for any little 
kindness received, never returning injuries, but learning to forgive, 
showing by an exemplary deportment how all ought to behave. 

5th. Never tell a lie knowingly, nor use the name of God irreverently, 
or in vain; mock not the aged, blind, lame, deformed, idiots. Play not 
in the streets, or ever for gain ; throw no sticks, stones, dirt, snow- 
balls, or anything at any person ; revile none, utter no indecent ex- 
pression, and return no affront to any you may meet with, but accord- 
mg to the best of your knowledge, demean yourselves in a modest, 
civil, complaisant manner to all. 



REBECCA JONES. 25 

6th. Let your language be the plain language, and spoken with pro- 
priety everywhere. 

7th. Be not forward to divulge anything past in school, nor jeer 
those who have been corrected, lest it should happen to be your own 
case. 

At Home, 

8th. Before you rise from your beds, observe to offer a mental peti- 
tion to Divine Providence for protection from evil and danger the 
following day, not omitting at the same time a grateful acknowledgment 
for the benefit of your rest: observe also the same reverence at lying 
down, returning humble thanks for preservation through the various 
incidents of the day. 

9th. Observe to use a cheerful and ready compliance to all your 
parents' commands, with becoming resignation to their will — never 
addressing or approaching them without honor and respect ; neither 
be loud in voice or laughter in their company, or before any of your 
superiors, nor forward to talk in their presence ; yet always returning 
ready and modest answers to their questions : never intrude yourselves 
upon them when alone, or with company ; if you are necessitated to 
speak with them, appear with good manners, and be sure to whisper, 
and withdraw unless desired to stay. 

10th. Make all your addresses to your brothers and sisters v/ith 
humility and good manners, using the word Please, &c. ; and in like 
manner to the meanest servant, that your good example may induce 
them so to behave to you. 

If you are necessarily where the servants are, give no ear to their 
jesting or idle talk, much less join with them, but always choose the 
company of such whose conversation is most improving in the best 
things. 

At Table. 
nth. Be not forward to sit down at table before the rest have taken 
their places, especially your elders or superiors ; when seated, be not 
eager to fall to your victuals like the brute animals, but first observe 
a solemn retirement of mind to the Supreme Giver of them. Be not 
talkative or offer to carve, or ask for yourselves, but wait till you are 
served. Find no fault with your food, or its dressing; but sit upright 
and soberly with silent attention, ready to answer any questions that 
may be asked of you; having eaten moderately, rise from table with- 
out noise, moving away your seats ; withdraw if strangers be present, 
unless desired to slay. 

3 



26 MEMORIALS OF 

At 'places for Worship. 

12th. When you attend meetings for Divine worship, observe to be 
present at the times appointed precisely, entering the place soberly 
and without noise in walking or otherwise, so as not to disturb the 
meditations of those that are met ; when seated, make no disagreeable 
scraping or rubbing of your feet against the floor or seat, nor use any 
unbecoming gestures or motions with any part of your bodies to dis- 
turb or offend any person, by biting your nails, pinching your fingers, 
lolling, stretching, yawning, spitting, staring about, or by anj- other 
means, but sit attentively and erect in a decent composure of body and 
mind, secretly desiring to be favored by our Heavenly Father with a 
proper disposition of mind to offer to him spiritual and acceptable 
worship, and to be enabled to practice what good advice you may 
hear, giving diligent attention thereto, that your behavior may not 
only be grateful to that Divine Being that made you, but also well 
pleasing to your parents and friends ; when the meeting breaks up, 
rise not in a hurry, nor be impatient to be gone, but rather think it a 
favor to be admitted upon such solemn occasions to sit with your 
elder Friends, respectfully noticing them as you pass along, showing 
no haste to leave their company. 

In the absence of a regular diary of this portion of her life, 
it is not easy to supply the deficiency, but little of her early 
correspondence being accessible. The following letter, written 
at the age of twenty, evinces that even then she was " instant in 
season," under the Divine anointing, in obeying the injunction, 
given to Feter, " when thou art converted, strengthen thy breth- 
ren." 

R. J. TO Beatjamin Swett, and Samuel Sansom. 

Pldladelphia, Sth mo. lOth^ 1759. 
Respected Friends, — It has been upon my mind ever since 
I heard of your intentions for England, in a great deal of good 
will, with desires for your welfare every way, to communicate 
in a few lines what I think quite necessary to observe. I have 
remarked some young men on their return from abroad, seem, 
as it were, swallowed up with the prospect of those transient, 
glaring views, which may have been presented to their minds 
relating to visibles : which disposition I v/ould have you guard 



EBECCA JONES. 27 

against, and bear in mind that you are of the youth of Philadel- 
phia, many of whom are greatly beloved by their Maker as well 
as Friends. I wish that you may not only gain experience in 
worldly things, but that you may know the Stay of youth and 
the Staff of old age near your spirit in all company and places, 
whereby you may witness experimentally a growth in grace 
and in the saving knowledge of God our Saviour, and may 
adorn our holy profession by a circumspect, steady conduct, 
not only amongst the faithful, but amongst whomsoever your 
lots may be cast ; and may know the Reprover, Refiner, Sane- 
tifier and Comforter, (which is no other than the Spirit of 
Christ,) to operate effectually in your hearts, making you ves< 
sels of honor to his praise. This is the sincere desire of your 
friend, 




Elizabeth Smith to R. Jones. 

Burlington, 23tZ of 4th mo., 1759. 
Dear Friend Rebecca Jones. — As thy letter did not seem 
to require an immediate answer, I thought best to defer it till a 
suitable time and opportunity offered to acquaint thee that I re- 
ceived it as a testimony of thy regard and a demonstration of 
love to the blessed truth, which I believe thou hast been favored 
in measure to know the revelation of — even of that Divine arm 
of everlasting Love and Power which has been the strength and 
support of the upright in heart, through every age of the world ; 
notwithstanding Infinite Wisdom has seen meet to try and 
nearly to prove his faithful children many ways : sometimes by 
suffering them to be surrounded with humbling fear and many 
deep baptisms on divers accounts, which certainly is in order to 
wear our affections from too great dependence on a love to 
things here below, and to keep us in a state of continual depend- 
ence on himself — who alone is worthy to bs trusted in, and 
steadily followed through every dispensation of his Providence. 



28 MEMORIALS OF 

My friend, I heartHy join thee in desiring a resigned heart, 
being fully convinced that it is not for want of sufficient help 
from Him in whom all power is, that some of the professors of 
Christianity stumble, and even fall, and many turn aside and 
are offended, because of sufferings. No, it is undoubtedly for 
want of "having the will of the creature subjected to Him whose 
will is to sanctify and redeem mankind to himself. And surely 
they will be blessed with an everlasting blessing, who are not 
offended in Him who has given Himself a ransom for all that 
receive him. And may thou and I be so favored as to have 
strength afforded so to follow on in the path of the just, as to 
have the happy experience made our own of its growing 
brighter and brighter unto the perfect day, is the sincere desire 
of my mind, with which I conclude. Thy assured friend, 

Elizabeth Smith. 

The writer of the foregoing letter was sister to Samuel Smith 
the historian — and between her and R. Jones a close fellowship 
existed, until the decease of the former, which occurred in me- 
ridian life. We have already seen that they were banded in 
religious service in the year 1762. 

She died in Burlington, 10th mo. 2d. 1772, aged about 48 
years, and on her death bed warned R. Jones to be faithful and 
to place her trust in him who can safely keep his children by 
sea and by land. She was, from a child, of unusual steadiness 
and composure of deportment and character, and being early en- 
trusted with the care of her widowed father and his family, her 
faithfulness not only won his confidence and love, but was also, 
it is believed, attended with the divine blessing. She was of 
sympathetic heart, much given to works of charity. She bore 
a clear testimony to the value of the Holy Scriptures and 
against the fashionable publications of her times. Early called 
to the work of the ministry she travelled considerably in Truth's 
service, and having long apprehended herself bound to cross the 
Atlantic, she at length spread her concern before the church and 
received its sanction — but was soon seized with the disorder 



REBECCA JONES. 39 

which terminated her earthly pilgrimage, and intl*oduced her, as 
we doubt not, and as she expressed when dymg, " into joy un- 
speakable and full of glory." 

During her illness having mentally queried, " Why am I so 
afflicted ?" her spiritxial ear was saluted with this answer : " My 
beloved Son, who never offended me, drank of the cup before 
thee." — "And thus," said she, in speaking of it, " I am helped 
along with one kind hint after another." In a solemn prayer 
to the Almighty for his support, when about to undergo a painful 
operation, she reverently closed with the following words : 
" Thou art the God of my life, who has kept me, and fed me 
all my life long. Be now near and support by thy presence, 
and if it is thy will to put an end to my being here, I submit. 
Be graciously pleased to give me rest in thy mansion, with thy 
dear Son the lamb immaculate, forever and ever !" A distin- 
guished cotemporary said of her, " She lived and died unmarried, 
a pattern of modest virtue." 

There is, we apprehend, a lesson to be derived from the pe- 
rusal of the following singularly characteristic epistle, which we 
introduce in the present connection. It brings to mind the 
humbling caution, " let him that is without sin cast the first 
stone ;" and it shows us that those who approach most nearly 
to the blameless Exampler, are the most tender in extending 
admonition, or even rebuke. Upon i'ew have the limitations of 
Truth been placed with greater strictness than upon John 
WooLMAN. Few perhaps, if any, have been more faithfully 
observant of them than he. Few have turned inward upon 
themselves a severer scrutiny, or have turned upon others a 
milder and more loving eye. Unreserved in his dedication to 
manifested duty, he was filled with that fervent charity which 
thinketh no evil, and doth not behave itself unseemly. He 
walked by that Spirit which James Naylor felt in dying, 
which, " as it bears no evil in itself, so it conceives none in 
thought to any other." And when, in the Divine illumination 
with which he was eminently favored, it was given him to see 
that/Wby the example of any, others were " in danger of being 



30 MEMORIALS OF 

diverted from close attention to the light of life," instead of 
passing prompt judgment upon them, it was his concern in the 
]ove of Him by whom his own goings had been established, to 
remind such that there were lessons for them and him yet to 
learn ; remembering that " Christ of old time taught the people 
as they were able to bear it," — and having " regard to the state 
of their minds." Fie could thus, in marking his friend and 
younger sister's indulgence in some things against which he felt 
that the Truth must testify, perceive also that the Lord had in 
great measure, weaned her mind from all these things ; and he 
could publicly manifest christian unity, with " a reserve''^ which 
he communicated to her alone, in that perfect love which casteth 
out fear. 

To our mind, this letter touchingly depicts the writer as 
faithfully attentive to his Master's interests, and full of kindness 
also to his fellow servants. 

John Woolman to Elizabeth Smith. 

Beloved Sister, — I have often had a tender feeling with 
thee in thy outward afflictions, and I trust, in some measure, 
with thee in thy inward exercises. I believe our afflictions are 
often permitted by our heavenly Father for our more full and 
perfect refining. 

The Truth, my dear sister, hath been precious in thy sight, 
and I trust remains to be to thee as precious as ever. 

In the pure and undefiled way, that which is not of the 
Father, but of the world, is purged out. 

Christ of old time taught the people as they were able to bear 
it, and I believe, my dear friend, there are lessons for thee and 
me yet to learn. Friends from the country and in the city, are 
often at thy house, and when they behold amongst thy furni- 
ture some things which are not agreeable to the purity of Truth, 
the minds of some, I believe at times, are in danger of being 
diverted from so close an attention to the Light of life as is 
necessary for us. 

I believe, my dear friend, the Lord hath weaned thy mind 



REBECCA JONES. 3I 

in a great measure, from all these things, and when I signed 
thy certificate, expressing thee to be exemplary, I had regard to 
the state of thy mind as it appeared to me ; but many times 
since I signed it, I felt a desire to open to thee a reserve which 
I then, and since often felt, as to the exemplariness of those 
things am.ongst thy furniture which are against the purity of 
our principles. 

I trust the Great Friend and Helper is near thee, in whose 
love I remain thy friend, 

John Woolman. 

2Qth da., Mh mo., 1772. 

I desired my wife to keep this letter for thee when she might 
see thee. 



R. J. TO C. Peyton.* 

My dear and much esteemed friend, C Peyton, — Feeling the 
arising of divine help and consolation in my soul, after a time 
of deep wading and travail in spirit before the Lord, I with a 
grateful sense of the salvation of a gracious God, and the tender 
care thou expressed for my welfare in thy last letter to A. B., 
liave set pen to paper just to acquaint thee that I am alive, and, 
blessed be the God of my life, I feel an increasing love for 
Truth, for the further I see and witness of the workings and 
power of it, the more I rejoice in Christ Jesus that I have been 
counted worthy to have a sense of it. Lord grant, saith my 
soul, that the visitation may be extended to thousands more, 
even of them who at present seem dead in sins and trespasses, 
(as I was when at first reached,) to the awakening, quickening, 
and raising from a state of death and separation from God, to a 
state of favor and acceptance with Him. 

My dear friend, the love I bear thee causes me to use great 

* C. Peyton married in 1772. Of course this letter which is without 
date, was written before that time. It is in the juvenile hand of R. J., 
and the date, it is supposed, should be 1759. If so, she was then about 
20 years of age. 



32 MEMORIALS OF 

freedom. I desire if thou find aught to write, thou mayst send 
it, for in a spiritual relation, I can, in a feeling sense, call thee 
'my beloved parent in Christ, through whom I received the first 
awakening stroke. Oh may I ever bear in mind the mercy and 
loving kindness of God to my soul : for a sense thereof has 
many times sweetened and made easy that which to the creaturely 
part was hard and bitter. 

I would not burden thee with many words, but draw quickly 
to a conclusion, for I trust thou canst feel (though at a distance 
in body) the circulation of that spring of love and life that ce- 
ments the whole flock and family the world over. Our youth 
here seem wonderfully favored, and many will, I hope, be made 
useful in the Lord's time, and qualified to fill up the places of 
those who have faithfully served Him in their day, when they 
shall be called from works to rewards. 

Friends here, in general, are in pretty good health. If thou 
shouldst meet with Joseph White, please to remember my love 
to him, and tell him, I heard a few days ago that his family 
were well, and the young man, Benjamin Hinton, who had ap- 
peared at the Falls Meeting, seems to grow, and promisingly ap- 
pears a well concerned minister." * * * * * 

In a copy of the epistle from the Yearly Meeting of Women 
Friends of Philadelphia, held Ninth month, 1755, to the corres- 
ponding body of London, preserved by R. Jones, we note the 
following paragraphs, which are interesting in the present con- 
nection, as C. Phillips had been made to her the instrument of 
much good. (It is regretted that we have not been able to find 
their correspondence.) 

« We have to inform you that this, our annual assembh^, hath been 
large and attended with the continuation of heavenly and merciful 
regard, graciously manifested for our help and encouragement, both 
immediately and instrumentally ; having been fav^ored at these oppor- 
tunities with the company of our worthy and well esteemed friends 
from Europe, Jonah Thomson, Joshua Dixon, Samuel Fothergill, Mary 
Peisly, and Catharine Peyton, whose solid and edifying labors of love 
in the gospel of Christ, we have good grounds to believe, have been 
made effectual to the awakening of sonae, and we trust will be blest by 



REBECCA JONES. 33 

Him who gives the increase, to the bringing them into a nearer ac- 
quaintance with the one Shepherd of Israel, under whose teachings 
they may be favored to find true rest to their souls." 

"The reports from some quarters further signify that a religious visit 
to Friends, families amongst them, has lately been performed to good 
satisfaction, in which weighty service Friends of this city are now en- 
gaged, and so far as they have proceeded, have met with satisfaction, 
having therein been favored with renewings of strength from the 
Divine hand, and also with the acceptable company and solidly helpful 
labors of our well beloved friends Mary Peisly and Catharine Peyton." 

As she was early associated in religious service with Rachel 
Wilson, the following testimony of the same meeting, given in like 
manner in 1769, having been preserved by R. J., may here be 
inserted. 

" We have been favored with the company of our well esteemed 
friend Rachel Wilson, from Europe, whose unwearied labors in the ser- 
vice of the gospel on this continent, have, we trust, proved effectual, thro' 
the divine blessing, not only to the removing of prejudices, and making 
room in the minds of the people for the admission of those important 
truths relative to life and salvation, but have likewise tended to the 
building up and edifying of the body in love ; that praises may as- 
cend to Him, who is over all worthy forever." 



R. J. TO M. Rickey. 

Philadelphia. 1759. 
Respected Friend, — It appears to me plainly, that the query 
proposed to thee is not applicable, because they that pretend to 
no supernatural wisdom make no pretensions to religion, and so 
differ little from the animal part of creation ; although a measure 
of the same grace and good spirit of God is given to them 
whereby they may know the mind of heaven concerning them, 
if they hinder not its work in their hearts by suffering the lust 
of the flesh and of the eye, and the pride of life, to crowd in and 
fill up the heart. But we, who profess to be led and guided by 
the spirit of Truth, and are sensible that we have a monitor 
within that will not only dictate to us our duties, but if we ask 
in faith, nothing doubting, will also give ability to perform that 



34 MEMORIALS OF 

which it makes known to be consistent with the will of Provi- 
dence, — I say, we, who are making such a profession as this, 
are not only " to expect such guidance," but it is our indispen- 
sable duty to seek to him for counsel and direction, if we expect 
from him a blessing. But they who are regardless of their 
future welfare, who mind only earthly things, set their affections 
only on visible objects that are fading and transitory, they look 
no further, and if they accomplish their desires by having a 
companion to assist in this hfe, that they may live comfortably 
here, they think that they need look no further. But they who 
are favored with a prospect of a future state, and compare this 
little span of time here, with that immense ocean of eternity, 
are satisfied that their chief interest lies in making preparation 
for it, seeing that our time here, when compared with eternity, 
is but as a drop to a fountain. But at the same time, my friend, 
I would remark, that if we only pretend to be actuated by 
that grand and noble principle of Truth, — if we are only satis- 
fying ourselves with a name to Christianity, and at the same 
time are destitute of the life and power of religion, we are mock- 
ing God, and deceiving our own poor souls. And such as these 
are, I fear, in a worse state than those who openly rebel and 
manifest that they are children of the world, and so enemies to 
the Cross ; because they are true to their king, though he be an 
enemy to the kingdom of love and light. But these who are in 
the service of the devil, and yet pretend loyalty to God> are de- 
ceivers in his sight, and he beholds them with derision. In 
short, love begets love, and where 'tis from a motive of love that 
IS pure, and the person's expressions agreeing with Truth, (for 
out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh,) when 
we see that they are founded upon the sure immovable founda- 
tion, we need not fear adversity, neither shall we in prosperity 

be lifted up. 

It is religion only that beautifies, and where that is wanting, 
(I don't mean a name only,) the distinction between a reprobate 
and a Christian is also wanting. I hope with thee, that thou 
mayst wiih sincerity, seek wisdom and counsel of God, and 



REBECCA JONES. 35 

then, if it is with sincerity, he will hear and answer thy request. 
It is my prayer that thou mayst be favored with the knowledge 
of the truth as it is in Jesus, for I am of the faith that our God 
will raise up from amongst the youth of this generation, faithful 
men and true hearted women that need not be ashamed, some 
laboring in a private and some in a public manner, for the ex- 
altation of the blessed Truth, if they stifle not that which will 
burn up all the chaffy part, and purify the heart thoroughly, and 
make them fit vessels to contain the precious treasures of 
the heavenly gifts. May we be of this happy number, that we 
may know the purging power of Truth, to do away all 
that which is of an unsanctified, unholy, impure nature, that 
being quickened by the life of religion, we may be able to glorify 
God in our day, age and generation, and that, whether single or 
married, living or dying, we may have the evidence in ourselves 
that we are his, — is what I earnestly desire. R. J. 

An ancient mansion stands No. 8, Drinker's alley, Philadel- 
phia. Its kitchen window, which opens to the westward, afford- 
ed, at the time of which we write, a cheerful prospect of a 
pleasant garden, the site of which is now occupied by a smith's 
shop. On a pane of said window may be read the name of 
Mary Jones, and of three others of the same sirname, inscribed, 
probably, with a diamond. Flere dwelt the mother of R. Jones ; 
here Rebecca and her friend, H. Cathrall, succeeded her in her 
school, which was continued in this place till the departure of 
the former for Great Britain. An intimacy subsisted between R. 
Jones and John Woolman, and she sometimes spent the princi- 
pal part of the summer vacation at his house. We have lying 
before us several specimens of his more careful penmanship, in 
writing copies performed by him to be imitated by the pupils of 
his friend, and which were used in her school, of which he was 
an occasional visitor. 

" Knowledge shall be promoted by frequent exercise." 

" Happy hours are quickly followed by amazing vexations." 

" Just be thy thought and every word sincere, 



36 MEMORIALS OF 

And know no wish but what the world may hear." 

" If thou knowest Christ, thou needst know little more — 

If not, all's lost that thou hast known before." 
" Censure none rashly ; Nature's apt to halt ; 

Look inward ; He's unborn that has no fault." 

On the night succeeding the Select Quarterly Meeting-day, in 
the Second month, probably about the year 1762, a great fall 
of snow occurred, which was next morning piled by an eddy 
half way up the door and window of our friends in Drinker's 
alley, who were apprehensive that they might not be able to 
make their way through the snow drifts to Quarterly Meeting. 
R. Jones opened the door to sweep the snow from the step, and 
found to her surprise, the pavement cleared, and a path made 
down the alley to Front street. Whilst she was preparing the 
morning repast, John Woolman entered, saying that he thought 
he had earned his breakfast. Having spent the previous night 
at Reuben Haines', in High Street near Fourth, he arose early, 
and remembering the lone sisters in their need, and ever ready 
for an appropriate labor of love, hov/ever humble, he took with 
him from his lodgings, a snow shovel, proceeded (wading through 
the deep snow from Second street downwards,) and cleared a 
path from R. Jones' to the Bank Meeting, in Front near Mulberry 
street. After breakfast he made a passage to Second street for 
the benefit of the scholars. 

A letter from John Woolman to R. Jones, dated Mount Holly 
4Mo. 20th, 1772, contains as is supposed, a reference to this 
visit, and concludes with commending her "to Him who is a 
Father, a Counsellor and Safe Protector to his family, 
through the various difficulties which attend them in this world." 

" 8Mo. 20th. 1772. « This day our beloved friend Sarah 
Morris laid her concern to visit friends in Europe before our 
Second day morning meeting for its consideration. She ex- 
pressed her feeling with much weight and brokenness, and inform- 
ed that she had had a distant prospect of that service for many 
years, but that since the decease of her dear mother it had been near- 
er and now was very weighty upon her. Friends expressed much 



REBECCA JONES. * 37 

sympathy and unity with her ; and next fourth day she intends 
for Burlington, there to confer with our dear friend Elizabeth 
Smith, who is under the like concern." 

By the following minute of Burlington Quarterly Meeting, 
held at Chesterfield 5Mo. 25th, 1772, it is inferred that our 
friend was at the time of its date engaged in rehgious service 
abroad with a certificate. " We were now favored with the 
company of our esteemed friends Rebecca Jones and Joyce 
Benezet, to our satisfaction and comfort." 

The following Address by John Drinker to Kebecca Jones and Han- 
nah Cathrall, 3d month 1783, is inserted, not on account of its metrical 
garb, but for the excellence of the sentiments, and as a memento of the 
the writer. 

THE CHRISTIAN QUAKER IN ABSTRACT. 

Inscribed- to the Virgin Sisters, 
Wayward th' affections of the human heart; 
Deceitful maze — perplexing labyrinth ! 
Its secret errors who can understand ? 
Who (1) loose the seals, and ope the conscious book, 
Where (2) hidden things of darkness are reveal'd ! 
Who there the mystic character can read ? 
The (3) dread hand writing who decypher there 1 
The coward fears to enter this profound 1 
The humbly honest dares himself to kn6w ; 
Dares to pervade these deeps, and pass the vale 
Of death — for death must be subdued, ere life 
Rise in dominion ! Not by human strength 
Is victory acquired ; but faith in Him 
Who leads death captive — lo I the (4) Shibboleth, 
Distinguishing professing infidels 
From true believers — (5) " Who will save his life, 
Must lose it ;" but who willingly resigns, 
(6) " Shall save it," and the gloomy veil of night 

(1) Rev. V. 1, 2. (2) 1 Cor. iv. 5. (3) Dan. v. 5. 

(4) Judges xii. 6. (5) Matt. x. 39. (6) Matt x. 39. 

4 



38 MExMORIALS OF 

That (7) overspread the temple, shall be rent ; 

The quicken'd mind shall issue from its (8) grave, 

And know (9) " the resurrection unto life !" 

(10) ye of little faith ! ye slow of heart, 

Reluctant still to understand the Truth, 

The Spirit's breathing language to the Church ; 

Why will ye doubt? — (11) " Ye gates lift up your heads!" 

Be lifted up ye everlasting doors L 

And let the King of Glory enter in ; 

And sway his (12) righteous scepter — know ye not 

Your proper dignity, ye sons of men ? 

Be still, and know, that •' if not reprobates, 

(13j Heaven's kingdom is within you" — there enthron'd 

In light, the mighty (14) " Heir of all things" sits ! 

Dispelling darkness — (15) "old things done away, 

All things are new ; new heavens and new earth, 

In which dwell righteousness," and peace and joy, 

Blest harmony of happy polity ! 

Than which (16) "no other name," no other power 

Can yield secure felicity to man. 

Infallibly sufficient to its end, 

(17) Above all principalities and powers. 

In heaven and earth, this power is over all. 

O Fox ! by strong philanthropy impell'd. 

To leave thy fleecy care, and as a crook 

Of the good shepherd, to collect the strays, 

The hungry wanderers o'er the barren hills 

Of dry profession and of wither'd forms ; 

To feed within the heavenly Pastor's care. 

Increasing strength on pastures ever green : 

How wast thou arm'd with all-subduing love. 

To brave the savage, persecuting wolf; 

Deep learn'd, unletter'd, much enduring George ! 

(7) Matt, xxvii. 51. (8) Matt, xxvii. 53. (9) John v. 29. 

(10) Matt. vi. 30. (11) Ps. xxiv. 7. (12) Heb. i. 8. 

(13) 2 Cor. xiii. 5. (14) Heb. i. 2. (15) 2 Cor. xv. 17. 

(16) Acts iv. 12. (17) Eph. i. 21. Peter ill. 13. 



REBECCA JONES. 39 

Oft I remember thy triumphant song ! 

*' God's power is over all," — soul gladd'ning truth I 

True fortitude's firm base, whose high import, 

In holy, humble confidence possess' d, 

Transcends all else which human intellect 

Can compass of sublime intelligence. 

Few men who reason, but in words allow 

One all-creating cause, omniscient, 

One omnipresent Lord, omnipotent ! 

And yet, how few sincerely thus believe ; 

Sincerely seek to know his sovereign rule. 

Commanding silent reverence, awful dread ! 

Subduing all things in them to himself! 

Most will acknowledge, this the only ground 

Of true religion — this, in theory, 

Perhaps, can finite wisdom comprehend ; 

Yet will that wisdom, through attachment strong. 

To earth's low joys, perversely still reject, 

Truth's life-renewing, efficacious power : 

And hence (18) " not many rich, not many wise," 

*' Not many mighty," number'd are with those, 

Who (19) through great tribulation brought, have known 

A new creation in them ; known their robes 

Wash'd from polluting stain, cleansed in the stream 

Of the new covenant of love and life ! 

Who feed (20) on hidden manna, (21) not sustain'd 

By outward bread alone ; whose life is hid 

From the gross view of reasoning power in man ; 

Which sits exalted in the scorner's seat. 

Fancying the way of these is (22) Foolishness ; 

Nor can that (23) vulture's eye e'er penetrate, 

Into the wisdom, and the blessedness, 

In which those meek of heart pavilion'd are. 

Their way (24) a mystery, from ages hid ; 

(18) 1 Cor. i. 26. (19) Rev. viii. 14. (20) Rev. ii. 17. 

(21) Deu. viii. 3. (22) 1 Cor. i. 18. (23) Job xxviii. 7. 

(i4) Col. i. 26. 



40 MEMORIALS OF 

Although a shining light ! a way untrod, 

(25) By rav'ning beast of prey, or lion's whelp, 

Or reptile venomous — pure wisdom's way ! 

That wisdom which proud men call foolishness : 

Not knowing in themselves that appetite 

Which (26) hungers for the life of righteousness : 

That living thirst that ever longs to taste 

The (27) sincere milk of the imrhortal Word ! 

By which the worlds were made ; in whom is life, 

Which life remains to be (28) " the light of men." 

O ! (29) " full of grace and truth," in thee alone. 

The adoption is ; the reconciling power, 

Uniting man to God — (30) '• Thy kingdom come. 

Thy will be done in earth, as done in heaven : 

Thine is the power," O teach my heart to feel 

The force of this great truth ? — feel ! thence to arise 

The voice of melody (31) " spring up O well ! 

" And we will sing to thee" the anthem high, 

* God's Power is over all." 

R. J. TO Elizabeth Robinson, (then in England.) 

Philadelphia, 6th mo. 25, 1775. 
Ml/ beloved Friend, — As thou hast been so particularly near 
my spirit to-day, I thought this evening, while my dear Hannah 
is at meeting, I would stain a little more paper in writing to 
thee. I wrote thee by Capt. Falconer, the next week after thou 
embarked, which I hope will be soon received if it has not been 
already. And now I may tell thee that our dear friend, S. 
Morris, is so much relieved (though not well,) that she was at 
Germantown Meeting last First day, and this morning at our 
great house, in both which she kept her seat and preached the 
gospel. My dear Hannah appeared in public ministry this day 
two weeks, while I was at Salem attending the Yearly and 

(25) Job xxviii. 7. (26) Matt. v. 6. (27) 1 Peter ii. 2. 

(28) John i. 4. (39) John i. 14. (30) Matt. vi. 10. 

(31) Numb. xxi. 17. 



REBECCA JONES. 41 

Quarterly Meetings there. I took Woodbury, Pilesgrove and 
Allovvays creek in my way. Wm. Brown, Isaac Andrews, and 
Grace Fisher, had good service there [at Salem,] and poor I, as 
usual, in such large meetings, was favored to keep pretty still 
all but one day. 

We this day visited Samuel Smith and wife. Since the 
morning meeting, S. Emlen told me he was much with the dear 
Friends at London, and he fixed thee at Devonshire House, M. 
Leaver at the Peel, and Robert at Gracious Street. He almost 
set me a longing to be with you. 

I wish I was able to give thee a cheering account of matters 
here, but that I cannot. Oh for the testimony, how it is tram- 
pled upon by many in profession with us ! Last First day 
morning a Friend, by name Martha Harris, (whom thou must 
have known,) began at Pine street, then went to G. House, and 
lastly at Bank, with the same message to all. She left her 
bonnet at the door, walked up the meeting house through all the 
upper and lower galleries, then very gradually through the pas- 
sages, under them, and then turned about to the meeting and 
said with an audible voice — " Dear Friends, look to the God 
of Heaven and of the whole earth, for he is about to search his 
camp — this is truth and no lie," — after which she withdrew, 
and went home to North Wales, without attending any other 
meeting. She appeared to me to be under a very great exer- 
cise, and I was not uneasy with it, though many others were 
much so. Neither did I find that her singular appearance did 
in the least disturb or unsettle any of the meetings. I am sure 

it did not ours. 

********* 

I am in hopes we are not all mistaken in supposing you now 
in London. If not, I am much out in my prospects, thinking 
you all there the 1st inst. 

Now methinks I should be sorry to tire thee, but thou know- 
est I did not use to be tired of being with thee, and this a little 
supplies the place of conversation. Allow me to say, my heart 



42 MEMORIALS OF 

loves thee, and fervently wishes thou mayst be preserved faith- 
ful to the end of thy days. I am encouraged in my present 
state of great weakness and poverty, in the remembrance of thy 
unreserved dedication to the Master's counsel. Dear friend, 
have me in thy remembrance, for indeed I am a poor, feeble 
child, and sometimes doubt ever being otherwise ; yet, if I know 
my own heart, I wish to be what the gracious, compassionate 
Father of the family intends, whatever conflicts and difficulties 
may attend. 

My spirit salutes thee in true gospel fellowship, and bids thee 
farewell in the Lord. 




Respecting this friend, R. J. has left the following brief 
note: 

« 1773, 9th mo. — Robert Walker and Elizabeth Robinson, 
arrived from Yorkshire; both faithful laborers in the Lord's 
work, and delivered many warnings in this land. Sailed from 
Chester in the 4th month, 1775." 

Of a visit performed in 1779, within the limits of Baltimore, 
and probably also of Virginia Yearly Meeting, little is known 
beyond what is contained in the following letter. 



R. Jones to Warner Mifflin. 

Fhiladelphia, 8th mo.^ 1779. 
Esteemed Friend, Warner Mifflin, — Although I was 
somewhat disappointed on the return of my dear companion 
from your Quarter, she informing me thou had not found time 
to write to me, I feel the prevalence of that disposition ever 
worthy of aspiring after, *' do as thou wouldst be done by," and 
therefore — 

I may inform thee respecting myself, (R. Chambers, I sup- 
pose, has given thee her account,) that after thou left us we 
were poor and quiet some days, and after attending Fairfax and 
Goose Creek Preparative Meetings, and the Monthly Meeting 



REBECCA JONES. 43 

at Fairfax, were in the resignation to go forward, if best, and in 
order thereunto, accompanied by Jos. Janney, Mahlon and his sis- 
ter Mary, we the next First day got as far as South Fork, attended 
that meeting, which was a time of deep exercise, and went five 
miles further on our way to John Gibson's (his wife Ruth in a 
poor way, and glad to see us,) where we lodged. In the morn- 
ing, my very enfeebled state, bothof body and mind, together with 
the deep and singular provings and exercises I had undergone 
in this journey, so discouraged me, that upon Rebecca's saying 
she thought of setting her face homewards, I at once submitted 
to her prospect, not daring to proceed on my own concern 
barely ; and here I think we missed it, for I now believe if we 
had kept more in patience, and clave close to the great Master, 
we might, at least, have returned with as much, if not a greater 
share of peace. As to the propriety of your all leaving us in 
that wilderness, I leave it; if you have settled it with your 
Master, I dare not judge. Warner, I am a poor, feeble, totter- 
ing child, and am thankful at times that I see myself so ; and 
this sense, though it does sometimes prevail to the retarding of 
my own steps, yet is, I believe, intended in mercy to keep my 
feet from sliding. Oh, the necessity of dwelling deep ! ever 
watchful on the pointings of that hand that doeth all things 
well ; for want of which my own hand hath sometimes lifted 
itself up, and in so doing, I have not failed to make work for 
repentance. I concur in thy sense of things in those parts as 
expressed in thy letter to my H. C. ; but must tell thee the field 
of painful labor yet remains open, and many hands may also 
lighten the work there, as well as in other places. We took 
some meetings on our return, such as Monomy, Bush Creek, 
Pipe Creek, Monallen, and Huntington, and left all the rest for 
another time, or other hands. I am often encouraged in re- 
membering the apostle's declaration, " If there be first in you a 
willing mind, a man is accepted according to that which he 
hath, and not according to that which he hath not." So that 
to be entirely willing, or in other words, unreservedly dedicated 
to the Lord's serving, is the sure prelude to his blessed favor 



44 MEMORIALS OF 

and acceptance ; this I am laboring according to my little 
measure for, and sometimes think I feel pretty near it, when, 
may-be, in the instant moment of struggling, the poor unmor- 
tified creature shrinks, draws its neck from the yoke, and its 
shoulder from the burthen, and then it is all to do over again 
with renewed exercise and increasing labor. It may be that 
this is only my case. However, I do breathe for strength to 
follow on, and if I cannot keep company with the foremost, I 
hope I may come up in the rear, so as that I may not be left 
quite behind. 

Give my love to thy spouse, and to Daniel and his wife, in 
which my companion unites, and also in the expression of care 
for Daniel and his amiable Deborah, that they may not only see 
and approve that which is excellent, but with heart and hand 
join in with the tender visitation of love and mercy, so as they 
may, by the sanctifying operation of truth, be made what the 
Lord would have them be, not serving themselves, but him who 
died for them, and who has bought them with no less a price 
than his own blood. Stupendous thought ! Matchless love and 
mercy ! which we can never too much adore, nor will the 
greatest returns in our power to make, be adequate to such infi- 
nite lovinor-kindness." * * * R. J. 



David Sands to R. Jones and H. Cathrall. 

JSIew Cornwall, 1.0th of 9t/i mo. 1781. 
Dear Friends, — We read, as from the lips of our blessed 
Lord, that blessed are the poor in spirit. I have viewed you 
as a part of this number, who have your way through much 
poverty, and at times great tribulation, in which situation I can 
at present sympathise with you in some measure, I having been 
for some time past in rather a low spot ; having had several 
poor turns as to my health, and I think I find myself under 
more weakness of body since I left Philadelphia than ever be- 
fore ; having been much of the time hardly able to sit a long 



REBECCA JONES. 45 

meeting ; . . . and under these trials my mind seems to 
be stayed on the Lord, in hope that if it is his will that this 
earthern tabernacle should be dissolved, I shall, through the 
merits and mediation of a Redeemer, gain an admittance into 
those joys that are unspeakable and full of glory. I have had 
to remember you in much affection and nearness, and the many 
useful little hints you occasionally dropped in my hearing, as 
also the letters I received from you at the Western Quarter, and 
esteem your cares and kindness as the truest tokens of real 
friendship. I believe I should have written to you before now 
if I had been at home ; . . . but I thought at this time, 
duty and inclination joined in strengthening my hands to take 
up the pen and endeavour to make some small retaliation* for 
the favors and kindness received ; and withal, in hopes of draw- 
ing some small bill on one or both of your pens, as I shall, I 
believe, always be glad of a line from you whenever freedom 
and opportunity will admit, and shall endeavour to make the 
best remittance I am capable of, which is but small. I have 
looked at your situation as a life of care, and much exercise in 
your outward employment, as well as in your more public, and, 
what if I also say private labors ; still I do believe it is by 
direction of best wisdom, and in providential care for the help 
and welfare of Friends in the city, both parents and children. 
Though I believe this favor, like many others, is too lightly 
thought of by some, yet I believe there is a remnant preserved 
in a living sense thereof, unto whom you are often made very 
near. And I have sometimes thought there is abundant cause 
for the honest hearted to be encouraged in hope, that though 
Israel be not gathered according to their desire, yet they are 
still glorious in the eyes of the Lord, and their God will be 
their strength. But notwithstanding what I have said, I don't 
mean to confine your labors within the walls of the city ; be- 



* The sense in which this word is now generally used of relarning 
injury for injury, appears to be a modern application, Its original 
meaning is a return of like for like. — En. Friends Review. 



46 MEMORIALS OF 

lieving that if I have to accuse you of any neglect of duty, it is 
in not being more given up to visit the more remote parts of the 
family. And I may say, I have sometimes thought there ap- 
peared too many huts and ifs, and these I have feared were 
sometimes too much given way to, to the hindrance of some 
services that might prove advantageous to yourselves, and shall 
I say, to many of the sheep and lambs that the Master has 
ordered to be fed, I shall leave you to- find or judge by whom. 

Thus my dear friends and sisters, I shall conclude with desire 
for your prosperity every way, and remain your truly loving 
and affectionate friend, 

David Sands. 



R. J. TO Edward Cathrall. 

Philadelphia, 1th mo. 2dth, 1782. 
Dear Edward, — Since thou left thy father's house my mind 
has many times turned towards thee, sincerely desiring that 
thou mayst not only witness preservation from every temptation 
that may present to draw thee still further from the path of in- 
nocence, but that by a steady adherence to the quick and power- 
ful Word in the secret of "thy own mind, thou mayst be brought 
into an acquaintance with a state of true inward stillness, in 
which thou mayst be favored to understand the things that 
belong to thy soul's peace — which is of the greatest consequence 
both to the aged and to the youth ; especially when we consider 
that our stay in this world is very uncertain, and that, after we 
have done with things below, we must appear before a righteous 
tribunal, there to give an account of the deeds done in the body, 
whether good or evil. How careful then ought we to be in our 
steppings through time; how watchful should be our words and 
actions ! Retirement of mind is such an excellent situation, 
(I have found it so,) that I cannot but recommend it to thee. 
Mayst thou often retire alone, and rather choose to be so, than 
in such company as may have a tendency to do thee hurt. 
Young people who are inexperienced, are often drawn into 



REBECCA JONES. 47 

things highly improper, if not offensive, in the sight of heaven, 
for want of keeping on their guard in this very spot : whereas, 
if they did but love silence, and to hearken to the monitions of 
Divine grace in their own hearts, they would grow up in good 
liking, yea, in favor with God and man. My heart prays for 
thy preservation, and that thou mayst, now in a state of separa- 
tion from all thy tender connections, be met with by Him who 
is willing to do them good, and who is waiting to be gracious 
to the descendants of those who have loved and served Him, as 
thy grand parents did. 

Keep this letter to thyself, and read it over leisurely, it is the 
language of one of thy best friends. 




bth mo.^ 5th^ 1783, R. J. notes. — " I awoke this morning 
with the following passage : " Ye have not chosen me, but I 
have chosen you, that you should go and bring forth fruit, and 
that your fruit should remain." Oh, my soul, treasure up and 
improve under the present favor. " 16th — This day Samuel 
Emlen opened a concern for visiting England the fifth time." 
On the 6th of 7th mo., having attended three meetings under 
great exercise and conflict, she records a petition to be preserved 
from murmuring, and helped to redeem Time. 10th mo., 27th, 
she opened to the 2d day morning meeting, and 11th mo., 24th, 
to her Monthly meeting, the prospect of the important and ex- 
tensive service, upon which she was soon to enter ; and under 
the last date, she remarks, " Divine help was near, and our 
spirits were baptized together under its blessed influence." 29th, 
she notes, "lOi o'clock — a still, clear sky — an awful shock of 
an earthquake." 



48 MEMORIALS OF 



CHAPTER III. 
1784. 

Credentials for England — Embarcation— Anecdotes of S. Emlen, Geo. 
Dillwyn, &c. — Letter from Capt. Truxton — Reaches Liverpool, Lon- 
don— C. Hustler joins her — Letter to H. Cathrall — Establishment of 
Women's Yearly Meeting — Extract from a Curious Letter. 

Having long felt an engagement to make a religious visit 
beyond the Atlantic, a certificate was granted her by Philadelphia 
Monthly Meeting for the Northern District, on the 27th of 1st mo., 
1784, addressed " To our friends and brethren in Great Britain 
and elsewhere in Europe." In this document, her friends say, 
*' We find our minds nearly united to her, in Christian fellow- 
ship and sympathy, — she being one whose life and conversation 
becomes our Christian profession, and her ministry sound and 
edifying." This certificate was signed by 112 Friends, only 
one of whom, a woman Friend, aged nearly 90 years, a former 
pupil of R. J., is now living. An endorsement from the Quar- 
terly Meeting held the 2d of the Second month, expressed " a 
prevailing sense of near union and sympathy with our beloved 
sister in her religious exercise, under which she has secretly 
labored several years, which lately reviving with increasing 
weight, she hath now solidly communicated to us." The fol- 
lowing certificate was granted by the Select Yearly Meeting, 
held by adjournments from the 27th of 3d month, to the 30th 
of the same, inclusive. 

To our Brethren and Sisters in Great Britain, Ireland, and 
elseivhere in Europe. 

Bear Friends : — We salute you in a thankful sense of the continued 
love of Christ, through the efficacy whereof faithful servants are 
drawn forth to labour in his Church ; and commend nnto you Rebecca 
Jones, our much esteemed sister, who has, with the approbation of the 



y 



REBECCA JONES. 49 

Monthly and Quarterly Meetings, as expressed in their certificate, now 
spread before us an exercise that has for some years attended her mind, 
religiously to visit you, which has brought a solemn weight over this 
assembly, uniting us with her concern, and giving us an evidence of 
duty to resign her to the Lord's will and guidance in her procedure on 
this weighty undertaking. Greatly desiring that the protecting pro- 
vidence of the Almighty may preserve her by sea and land, and that by 
humbly continuing under his holy anointing, she may be daily quali- 
fied to perform the work whereunto he appoints her, to the honor of 
Truth, her own peace, and the comfort of the faithful among you, to 
whose tender sympathy and Christian fellowship we affectionately 
recommend her, and remain your loving friends. [Signed by 130 
Friends.] 

These testimonials, given forth by the church, are well cal- 
culated to introduce her to the confidence of those who cannot 
recall her memory ; whilst^ those who knew her, and in whose 
hearts an indelible memorial lives, may perhaps, in the perusal 
of them, find themselves in the midst of thronging remem- 
brances of the palmy days of our Society. May such Friends, 
the venerable relics of the race 

" Who danced our infancy upon iheir knee," 
be favoured with a Pisgah view of the day, when He, whose 
presidency was then so eminently felt, shall restore judges and 
counsellors, and qualify his servants to build again the waste 
places. 

From the diary of Katharine Howell we extract the follow- 
ing passages : 

" 4:th mo. '20th, 1784. — Went down to see my valued friend, 
R. Jones, before her departure. A great number of friends 
came, and we had a favored time. Rebecca Jones and W. 
Savery spoke excellently." 

" 2lst. — Mary Smith took a seat with my husband and self, 
and left the city with the intention of accompanying our be- 
loved friends to the ship. Phebe Pemberton, Mary Pleasants, 
Rebecca Jones and Hannah Cathrall, Thomas Ross, John Par- 
rish, wife, and sister Patience Marshall, and Mary Compton, 
joined us at the ferry ; S. Smith, Mehetabel Jenkins, David Ba- 

5 



50 MEMORIALS OF 

con and daughter, Joseph Jenks and wife, having crossed be- 
Ibre us. Mary Armitt, Elizabeth Fouike, Anne and Susanna 
Dillvvyn, Rumford Dawes, and Nancy Emlen, soon overlook 
us on our arrival at Chester, where we dined, and where we 
found Margaret Haines and son, and Sally Greenleaf. Richard 
Vaux and Elizabeth Roberts, Samuel Elam and Hester Fisher, 
came in soon after, and James Bringhurst drove Samuel Emlen 
and John Cox. H. Drinker and son, and Samuel Emlen, Jr., 
came on horseback, and I believe we had been there more than 
an hour, when George Dillwyn and wife, Margaret Morris and 
son, Henry Hull and Patty Moore, driven by Richard Wells, 
arrived. Reached Wilmington after 5 o'clock, and were taken 
by our kind neighbor, Rumford Dawes, to his brother Harvey's, 
where a good cup of tea proved grateful to many. At 6 o'clock 
there was an evening meeting appointed. 

^^ First day, Mh mo. '2hth, — We crossed the ferry about 8, 
A. M., after a very pleasant ride to New Castle, had a sitting 
with our dear friends in a public house, after which there was 
liberty given, and a meeting held in the Court House. After 
dinner we took an affectionate leave of each other, and our 
friends went on board of the ship Commerce, Captain Truxton, 
about 4 o'clock." 

Relative to her embarkation, we find the following note in 
R. J.'s sea journal ; 

" Embarked at Newcastle on board the ship Commerce, Capt. 
Thomas Truxton, commander, the 25th of the 4th mo., 1784, 
in company with my valued friends, Thomas Ross,* Samuel 



*The following incident respecting Thomas Ross, -was mentioned in 
my hearing, long after his death, by a friend who was personally ac- 
quainted with him. 

While his mind was under exercise with the prospect of a visit to 
Europe, but before he had given up to the service, he was one da\'^ 
thrown from his horse, r.nd his foot being fixed in the stirrup, he was 
dragged some distance, probably a very short one, in that perilous sit- 
uation. His mind recurring to this engagement, as one from which 
he was improperlv shrinking, he breathed forth a petition: "Lord 
spare my life and I'll go ;" when some of the fixtures giving way, he 
was instantly released. — [Editor of Friends' Review. 



REBECCA JONES. 51 

Emlen and son Samuel, George and Sarah Dillwyn, and Me* 
hetabel Jenkins, all intending for Great Britain." She also pre- 
served the names of the cabin and steerage passengers, ship's 
hands and common men, her interest extending to all ranks and 
conditions of men, desiring the welfare of all, and being more 
than wiUing to be made helpful to any. 

Succeeding this catalogue of names, we find the following 
passage : 

" Having for many j'ears had a prospect of duty to pay a re- 
ligious visit to Friends in Great Britain, under which my heart 
was often bowed v/ithin me, secretly desiring that if it was in- 
deed the Lord's requiring, my will might be brought into a per- 
fect state of resignation to his holy will ; at length m;^ mind was 
fully given up, trusting in a gracious promise which I was fa- 
vored with from the source of all true blessedness and com- 
fort, with this charge, ' Look not out, and all things ne- 
cessary shall be furnished.' In the regular precious order of 
truth, I laid the same before my dear friends, who in sympathy 
and unity therewith, signified their concurrence in the Monthly, 
Quarterly, and General Spring Meetings. And though I was 
favored as it passed from stage to stage, so that my mind was 
preserved entirely clear of doubting, yet it was my constant de- 
sire, (the which I each time told my friends feelingly,) ' that the 
Divine will only might be done.' The before-named friends, 
under the like exercise, being all set at liberty, and the afore- 
said ship offering, we felt easy to take our passage therein, in a 
humble depending frame of mind, believing that if it was the 
Lord's will, we might reach the next Yearly Meeting at 
London." 

An incident connected with their embarkation is worthy of 
recital, as illustrative of the benefit which the true disciple may 
receive from an entire dependence upon the all-sufficient Teach- 
er. Two ships were in readiness to sail for London. One was 
a large merchant vessel ; the other, a smaller one, had been 
built for a privateer, and was especially adapted for fast sailing. 



52 ' MEMORIALS OF 

Rebecca and her associates in the proposed voyage, visited the 
two ships, to decide between them ; and went first on board the 
larger one, which had been preferred by many of their friends. 
They seated themselves in the cabin, and Samuel Emlen first 
broke the silence by saying " Death and darkness !" A simi- 
lar feeling of uneasiness in reference to this vessel pervaded the 
minds of the others. On taking their seats in the smaller ship, 
a clear evidence was vouchsafed them, that it would be right for 
them to take their passages in her — which they did according- 
ly, and in due time the reader will have occasion to remember 
that there is a " Wisdom profitable to direct," which was re- 
markably confirmed in the experience of our friends. 

The next day after they found themselves out at sea, their 
rough Captain (subsequently Commodore Truxton,) opened a 
locker and threw in a pack of cards, saying " lie there — you '11 
see daylight no more — in compliment to these Friends." And 
at the table he took up his glass of beer, saying, " Here's hoping 
that %ve friends may reach London timely for the Yearly Meet- 
ing !" — which, it will be remembered, had been their desire, 
though from the shortness of the time it was not confidently ex- 
pected for them. 

After clearing the capes of Delaware and discharging the 
Pilot, Truxton joined our friends in the cabin, and having ob- 
tained their assent to some pertinent remarks upon the mutual 
benefit which persons confined within such narrow limits would 
derive from making themselves agreeable to each other, he ob- 
served that there was one thing they could do which would very 
much displease him. They of course desired to be apprised of 
his meaning. " It is," said he, " for you to know that there is 
anything in my power which will contribute to your comfort, 
and not to ask for it." 

The kind disposition thus indicated, was continued by him 
through the voyage, and his high estimate of the qualities of R. 
Jones was frequently evinced. As an illustration of this we may 
be allowed to quote a rather extravagant speech which he made 



REBECCA JONES. 53 

at a London Coffee House soon after their arrival in speaking 
of her to his brother captains and merchants — " that he had 
brought over an Amercan Quaker lady who possessed mjie 
sense than both Houses of Parliament." 

One day R, Jones going upon deck, saw George Dillwyn 
seated in pensive mood upon the chicken coop (which on ship 
board is ordinarily fitted for a seat.) He said to her, " Rebecca, 
canst thou keep a secret?" To which she replied, that she was 
not in the habit of prying into other people's secrets, but that 
she could keep them when entrusted to her. " Well, then," 
said he, " I think we shall see land next First day." They 
were soon joined by all their companions except Thomas Ross, 
who was confined in his cabin (as will hereafter appear) by a 
hurt. R. J. remembering the lonely situation of the latter, 
went to sit with him. He accosted her in the same words, 
querying if she could keep a secret ; to which she repeated her 
former reply. He then expressed the same prospect, that they 
should see land next First day. On First day morning (5th mo. 
S2d, 1784,) George rose very early, and, standing on the quarter 
deck with his arms folded behind him, he called out with a firm 
voice, " land ahead !" The Captain being still in his berth, 
hastened up in alarm, and asked who had called "land ahead." 
George, calmly retaining his position, in a few minutes repeated 
his call. The captain immediately ordered to the mast-head a 
man who was noted for distant sight, to keep a look out. When 
after the lapse of ten or fifteen minutes, no sign of land could 
be discovered, the Captain sharply rebuked G. D. for the felse 
alarm, which might, he said, have led to serious consequences. 
George stood unmoved, and called, in a firm tone, and louder 
than before, " land ahead !" The puzzled Captain ordered the 
lead to be thrown, but, before this could be done, the sentinel 
called out, '' ahoy, land ahead !" The lead was then thrown, 
and, in reference to it, the compiler turning for confirmation to 
Captain Truxton's sea journal, finds the following note : 

*' Sunday, 23d May. At six o'clock sounded, got 42 fathoms 

water-^'Shells and rotten brown stones — at seven made the land 

'5 



54 MEMORIALS OF 

— take it for the start — bearing E. N. E.; nine leagues distant. 
Latitude observed 49° 45' North." 

Rebecca preserved some of the shells and sand taken at this 
place, a portion of which is still kept. 

We will anticipate the course of the narrative to say, that 
they landed at Gravesend on Sixth day, the 28th of Fifth month, 
after a passage of thirty days, reaching London about four 
o'clock P. M. ; this being the day .prior to the select Yearly 
Meeting. Two weeks afterwards, the ship to which their at- 
tention had first been turned, was towed in, on her beam ends, 
the keel being out of the water, the ballast and whole cargo 
having shifted in a storm so that they were unable to right her. 
They had taken a different course from the one pursued by the 
"Commerce," and experienced danger and distress, so that all 
hope of reaching their port at one time vanished. A female 
passenger afterwards gave R. J. a moving account of their pas- 
sage, and mentioned that when, (every light in the cabin being 
out,) the water made its way in the cabin and into the state 
room, she lay in her berth expecting death as inevitable, and 
reached down her hand to feel the water as it rose ; and that 
while her soul's concerns were uppermost, and her heart was 
engaged in fervent prayer, the only temporal desire she allowed 
herself to cherish, was, that she might not struggle long in the 
water. 

We now insert some extracts from her own notes of the 
voyage, 

"We left Philadelphia, Fourth month 24th; upwards of sixty 
Friends with us. Dined at Chester, then proceed to Wilming- 
ton ; had a meeting, which was large, and favored with con- 
firming evidence that the Lord is good to those that fear him, 
to the souls of those who in sincerity seek and serve him. 

2bth. First day. — Proceeded to Newcastle where the ship 
lay ; had a meeting in the Court House with the inhabitants, to 
satisfaction ; after which we dined, and after an affectionate 
leave of our dear friends, went in a yawl to the ship, which 
was ready for our reception. Our dear friends S, Hopkins, 



REBECCA JOx\ES. 55 

Samuel Smith, John Parrish, wife and son, S. Pleasants and 
wife, Phebe Pemberton, Ann Dillwyn,* and Ann Emlen, Jr., 
accompanied us on board, about four o'clock, where we felt easy 
and resigned, trusting in that gracious Providence who is able 
to protect and preserve us by sea and by land. After adjusting 
our little conveniences, &c., we retired to rest, which was much 
interrupted. However, I got some sleep, and felt refreshed and 
comforted in the hope that the Lord was with us. 

26^/2-. Second day. — About seven A. M., the wind having 
sprung up, and fair, we reached the capes, which is near 100 
miles, by one o'clock, P. M., when the ship hove to for the 
Pilot, who left us about two o'clock. 

2Sth. Fourth day. — Extremely sick. G. M. and self taking 
little nourishment, yet quiet in spirit, looking to the Lord. 

2Qth. Fifth day — Had a poor night ; high wind kept us 
rolling about. Three of our hogs washed overboard, ^and 
several poultry drowned — but the dead lights having been put 
up in the afternoon, the cabin was mostly dry. As I lay roll- 
ing about, the sea being very rough, my mind was turned toward 
the Lord, and this petition revived with life and sweetness : 
"Let not the water-flood overflow me, neither let the deep swal- 
low me up." And my trust and confidence were renewed in 
the all-sufficient Plelper of his people. This day we passed 
through the gulf stream of Florida, and left Cape Henry to the 
windward. 

30iA. Sixth day. — G. D., M. J., and myself continue very 
sick, but the weather clearing up, and a pretty good breeze from 
W. and shifting to N. W., we ran along finely. I came upon 
deck about one P. M., and was revived with the air, and took a 
little nourishment — so I sat on the floor of the deck to make this 
memorandum — retired to rest under a humbling sense of the 
Lord's continued care and regard towards his poor servants, 
who have left all to follow his leadings. 

K>th. mo. 1st. Seventh day. — Very sick — yet quiet in mind — 
trusting in the Lord. 

* Afterwards wife of John Cox. 



56 MEMORIALS OF 

2d. First day. — Our Captain having been informed last eve- 
ning that we thought it right for our little band to retire and 
wait upon the Lord, under the persuasion of his providential 
care, and in acknowledgment of our dependence upon him for a 
blessing, he readily consented, and appeared willing the steerage 
passengers might have the privilege of sitting with us, if they 
chose it. But the wind springing up freshly, and increasing 
with rain, we sat down alone. Melting goodness was near our 
spirits. T. Ross, and S. Emlen, had some encouraging hints, 
and we were comforted as well as bowed together in spirit. 
The Lord's great name be praised ! 

3c?, 4^/^, and bth. — The wind being fair, we sailed from eight 
to ten knots. We came in sight of the banks of Newfound- 
land. 

Qth. Fifth day. — A calm, and a pleasing calm of soul. May 
gratitude be the covering of my spirit, under a renewed sense 
of the deep obligations I am under to the great Shepherd of 
Israel, who has not only favored my poor soul with the know- 
ledge of his will respecting me, but, oh ! blessed be his power, 
has furnished with strength sufficient hitherto to comply with 
his heavenly requirings. And I feel at this instant renewed 
desires, that I may be kept humbly dependent on Him alone, 
who is strength in weakness, and riches in poverty. Hitherto 
all the company in the cabin have conducted in great harmony, 
each being willing to assist the other in little kindnesses, and 
our mutual friend, nurse, and helper, Sarah Dillwyn, has been 
particularly attentive to our various wants. I esteem myself 
under great obligations to her ; may her labor be acceptable, 
and rewarded by the great Master, who has promised that they 
who give a ' cup of cold water in the name of a disciple, shall 
receive a disciple's reward.' And in the course of this voyage, 
Wm. Ludlam (one of the passengers — an obliging, sensible, well 
behaved man) having a stone bruise on his heel, and S. Emlen, 
and T. Ross, having, by the motion of the ship, slipped and hurt 
themselves, S.D. has had to dress and tend the wounds of them all, 

I was favored with a quiet good night, more so than any pre- 



REBECCA JONES. 57 

vious, and was in my sleep in company with my dear friends at 
Philadelphia, in the enjoyment of sweet unity and fellowship, es- 
pecially my dear H. C, for whose welfare is my soul anxiously 
solicitous, that she, with myself, may be kept near the Lord, wait- 
ing steadily on him for help and direction in the most needful 
time, and that we may be supported, encouraged, and helped, 
under the present trial, and stand so unreservedly dedicated to 
the Lord's will and requirings, that the hands of our arms may 
be made strong for labor in the heavenly vineyard, in the day 
time. 

Sth. Seventh day. — Had a good night. Awoke about mid- 
night, in the enjoyment of divine love and sweetness' on my 
heart in a superior degree — lying peacefully with my mind 
turned towards Him who has, I do believe, required this sacri- 
fice at my hands, and whom I do acknowledge worthy to be 
served, honored and obeyed, now and forever. In the morning 
sea-sickness came on again, that G. D., M. J. and myself were 
renewedly tried. 

A small bird called a curlew plover, supposed to come from 
the banks of Newfoundland, lit on one of the ship's yards, was 
taken by one of the hands, and brought into the cabin. It is 
about the size of a pigeon, with a small bill like a snipe. It 
being a stranger, and, to us Americans, a curiosity, our captain 
has ordered a box for its accommodation, S. D. wishing to carry 
it to England. My mind was this evening poor, but quiet: Re- 
tired early to bed. 

Qth. First day raorning. — Awoke refreshed, both in body 
and spirit. Sick for a short space, but, getting better, was 
favored to sit in the cabin, where a meeting was held, the Cap- 
tain, cabin passengers, most of the steerage passengers, and as 
many of the seamen as could be spared from working the ship, 
attended, and behaved well. It was a solid, good opportunity, 
and, I trust, was owned by the Great Commander of the seas. 
G. D., S. E. and M. J., each appeared lively in the exercise of 
their gifts. A light head wind. 

10^/t. Second day. — Awoke with these expressions, " Con- 



58 MEMORIALS OF 

fide in his mercy, and adore his 'power. ^"^ Was sick at first 
rising, but grew better. Spent great part of this day upon 
deck, in sweet fellowship with our little band. Little wind, and 
that ahead. 

Wth. Third day. — Less sick to-day. A fine wind. In the 
evening, nny mind was drawn into secret retirement, in which 
my soul was bowed in humble prostration and worship to the 
God of my life, who hath done great things for me, a poor, un- 
worthy creature. Rain in the night, with thunder and lightning. 

\2th. Fourth day. — Could have slept this morning, but felt 
much sympathy with M. J., knowing by experience how dis- 
pirited they feel who are very sea sick. I called the steward, 
and gave orders for some gruel, which was salutary, and she 
seemed better after it. Our worthy friend, T. Ross, this day, 
by a lee lurch of the ship, fell in the cabin, and wounded one 
of his legs badly, which was timely attended to. It was a 
favor that he was not more hurt. I retired to rest under a 
thankful sense of Divine mercy, and fresh breathings of soul 
after the renewal of love and favor. 

\Wi. Fifth day. — Awoke sweetly refreshed ; arose humbled 
in a view of my own weakness. Felt drooping this day, but 
quiet in mind. 

\Mh. Sixth day. — Better this morning. Admired the kind- 
ness of Divine Providence towards us in this our floating in- 
closure on the great deep. Blessed be His great name whose 
care is over his poor servants, fulfilling his gracious promise, 
who hath said, " I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee." We 
had a sweet, refreshing season this morning in our cabin, select 
from the other passengers, which is an additional favor. It 
appears, from the Captain's account, that, by 12 o'clock this 
day, we have, in 24 hours, sailed 228 miles. He, with Wm. 
L. and R. Ely,* &c., are preparing fishing tackle to catch 
mackerel. 

May our rejoicing be in fear, depending only on the divine 

*Kichard Ely. an affable, courteous man, was our fellow passenger. 



REBECCA JONES. 59 

protecting arm of the Almighty, without whose permission not 
a hair of our heads will be allowed to perish. 

\dth. Seventh day. — A fine fair wind, and such pleasant 
weather, that our Captain tells us that we might go to sea for 20 
years, and not have such another day, for our ship is steady 
enough to sew and write pleasantly, though going so rapidly, 
that in the last 24 hours we have sailed 240 miles. 

IQth. First day. — The wind unfavorable. I was not so well 
to-day. We sat down quietly in the morning, but had not so 
general an opportunity as on last First day. Spent the latter 
part of this day alone in our state room, my heart being turned 
towards the Lord, and my confidence renewed in his sufficiency 
and strength, for the fully supplying of our various needs. 

\lth. Second day. — Rose refreshed in body, yet low in mind, 
though not discouraged : much desiring to be rightly directed in 
m}"- future movements, particularly in the place suitable for me 
to take up my abode whilst in the great city towards which we 
are approaching; and that I may be kept humble, little and low 
in that simplicity which my heart has been long convinced is 
designed for my safety, and has ever been the prelude of true 
peace. Oh that wisdom and knowledge may be the stability of 
our times ! Then may we hope the Divine strength will be our 
salvation and rejoicing." 

To this note is appended, in the hand writing of George Dill- 
wyn, these words : " Amen, saith G. Z)." 

The following instance of the signal care of Divine Provi- 
dence is wortliy of record. Samuel Emlen, Jr., had just moved 
from his seat directly under the sky-light in the cabin, when 
one of the sheep on deck fell through the glass into the cabin. 
Without doubt, if S. had been in the spot where he had been 
sitting, without his hat, the particles of glass, with the weight 
of the falling animal on his bare head, must have greatly 
wounded him, if not taken his life. May a grateful sense of the 
distinguished Mercy, be so impressive on his young and tender 
mind, as to excite this query in sincerity, " What shall I render 
to thee, oh Lord, for all thy benefits ?" 



60 MEMORIALS OF 

18^^. First day. — Not so well this day. Still under an ex- 
ercise on my own account, that the Lord, my alone Helper, 
may condescend to favor me with the distinct knowledge of his 
will, that I may not determine in the uncertainty, nor mistake 
his counsel. Spoke a brig from Amsterdam, bound to New 
York. 

l^th. Fourth day. — The wind favourable. Several of 
us employed in writing, hoping for' an opportunity to convey 
some inteUigence to our dear friends whom we have left behind, 
towards whom my mind has been often turned in near affection 
and for whose preservation and stability in righteousness have 
my prayers ascended as for my own. It looks probable we 
may reach the Yearly Meeting of London, where I expect 
fresh exercise, and oh ! may I be kept humble and low with 
the pure seed ; though in a state of deep suffering. Last even- 
ing I had some serious conversation with our Captain, during 
which he was attentive and solid ; ^t the conclusion of which 
he acknowledged my kind intentions, and said he believed I 
was concerned for his and others' good — and behaved affection- 
ately. 

2lst. Sixth day. — Awoke with these expressions : " He will 
be a strength to the poor— a strength to the needy in his distress, 
a covert from the storm, when the blast of the terrible ones is 
as a storm against the wall." Spent much of this day in 
inward retirement, humbly trusting in the Lord, my sure, 
unfailing friend, to whom I desire to look in simplicity, as a 
little child, for further direction and help, knowing 'it is not in 
man who walketh to direct his own steps.' 

23^?. First day. — Held our Meeting this day in the cabin. 
It was a favoured, comfortable season." 

On this day (^the 23rd) the Captain, who had conceived a high 
respect for our friend, which he afterward repeatedly evinced, 
presented her with a copy of his sea journal, in his own wri- 
ting, with the following letter written upon the first page. 



REBECCA JONES. gj 

" On board the Commerce, in the English Channel, May 23rd, 1784. 

" Madam, — Our passage, in all probability, being now nearly at an 
end, give me leave to present you a copy of my journal, which con- 
tains all the observations that were essentially necessary for our guide 
and direction across the Atlantic Ocean ; which, with the help of 
Divine Providence, we have passed over, without the smallest acci- 
dent whatever ; and have, thanks be to Heaven, arrived on our 
desired coast, where I hope, in a few days, to see you safely landed, 
and to congratulate thereon. For it is with heart-felt pleasure and 
satisfaction to myself, that I can with truth say, that I never had so 
instructive and pleasing a female companion at sea as yourself. 
And in short, I cannot say less for all the rest of the Friends. 

"This small token of my esteem I present you, that you may at any 
future time refresh your memory with the different occurrences that 
have turned up from time to time during the passage, respecting the 
ship, winds and weather. 

" That you may enjoy your health, and be the instrument of enlight- 
ening the minds of many in this eastern world (as I am satisfied that 
is your errand,) and return safely back to your connexions and friends 
in America, rewarded by heaven for your labors, is the sincere wish 
of your friend, Thomas Truxtos". 

To Rebecca Joxes.'' 

The Journal thus commences : 

" A Journal, by God's permission, on board the ship Commerce, 
from Philadelphia to London. Commencing April the 26th, 1784, and 
kept by Thomas Truxton, Commander of said ship." 

2Uh. Second day. — As we were advancing up the British 
Channel, and although delighted with the fine prospect of the 
land, of White Rocks, Isle of Weight, &c., (G. D. and self 
being on deck and counting the shipping around us, 30 in all, 
which was a feast to the eye,) yet my mind was low, stripped 
and fearful, lest I should not keep near enough to that Power 
which alone has preserved andean preserve, under and through 
all the dispensations of his Providence, to his own praise. 
May I be favoured not only to get deep enough, but to keep 
deep and humble with the pure seed, in mine own bosom and 

6 



62 MEMORIALS OP 

the bosoms of the faithful amongst whom my lot may be cast. 

2Qth. Sixth day. — Being favoured to reach Gravesend 
early this morning, we prepared to go on shore, which we did. 
Our Captain left the ship first, in order to prepare a dinner and 
carriages for us, and had all ready when we arrived. Having 
dined, we started, our Captain with T. Ross and S. E., jr., in 
one post chaise, S. E., sen., and M. J., in another, and G. Dillwyn 
and wife and myself, in a third, and reached London about 
4 o'clock. During the ride up, though there was much to en- 
tertain the eye and delight the senses, yet my heart was humbled 
and bowed in contrition, under a sense of the Lord's goodness 
and mercy, in having conducted a poor handmaiden over the 
mighty ocean in safety, and above all, in the sustaining sense 
of his power and presence, which had attended me, to bear up 
in the time of conflict and exercise. For all which my heart 
is prostrate before Him, and returns the feeble attribute of 
thanksgiving and praise for all his mercies : acknowledging that 
He is worthy now and forever more. Amen." 

Before her departure from Philadelphia, Arthur Howell, in 
bidding her adieu, placed in her hand a sealed note to be read 
at sea ; which contained a short, but full, expression of his 
sympathy and unity with her in her prospect, and concluded 
with quoting from Isaiah 49 : 23 — " Kings shall be thy nursing 
fathers and queens thy nursing mothers." She afterwards 
mentioned that on first meeting with Christiana Hustler, 
(who was her first companion in England, and travelled much 
with her,) at Jos. Gurney Bevan's, the passage occurred to her — 
" Kings shall be thy nursing fathers and queens thy nursing 
mothers." Although their home was together, at the house of 
J. G. B., nothing passed between them during the time of 
Yearly Meeting, relative to their being associated ,* but when 
John and Christiana Hustler were preparing to return to their 
home in Yorkshire, C. told her husband that she believed he 
would have to return alone — that she was not acquainted with 
Rebecca Jones' views relative to a companion, but she felt very 
much bound to her, and felt that she must make an offer of 



REBECCA JONES. Q^ 

herself. Being encouraged to attend to her feelings, she went 
to R. J's roonn, where they had a conference, which Tesulted in 
a mutual conviction that they were designed to be banded toge- 
ther as companions in religious exercise. In a letter written 
immediately after her arrival in London, she says, " Christiana 
Hustler is in her person very much like my H. Cathrall ; about 
50 years of age, has a lively gift in the ministry — an agreeable 
nice, very nice person, and indeed in general, the English wo- 
men make a very neat appearance, and carry their age remark- 
ably well." 

On 5 th day^ 6 mo. Srd, she writes to IT. Cathrall. 

" As I know thou art fond of particular accounts, I have 
risen early before the family. My mind is turned towards thee, 
expecting to be so engaged when I leave this City, that I may 
not write so much : though I intend to omit no opportunity. 
I spent the evening before last with Catherine Phillips, and she 
with her husband supped with us the last evening. I have al- 
ready informed thee, she looks much as when with us. Her 
husband appears an elderly person, is a sensible man, and 
agreeable. 

Joseph Gurney Bevan, my kind landlord, is a solid friend, 
and his wife a lively, agreeable, very nice woman. She does a 
little in our way. He is an apothecary. They have no children. 

They are very kind and -attentive to us, and I believe it right 
we are here. John Eliot, with whom T. Ross, R. N., S. Em- 
len, S. N., and many others lodge, is a solid substantial Friend, 
and his wife a fine person. She made me think of her mother, 
M. Weston. They lived in a spacious complete house. Wm. 
Dillwyn lives elegantly. His wife very much like Ruth Rich- 
ardson. 

Lydia Hawkesworth, whom I shall call C. Phillips' Aid de 
Camp, is a fine, agreeable person. And Esther Tuke is a sort 
of Princess. Samuel Neale looks much as he used to, only a 
little older. In a large company he said to me, " Thou and I 



64 MEMORIALS OF 

are sisters" — I replied, '* Why not brethren" ? upon which he 
discovered his blunder, and many smiles ensued. 

There is (however low things are in this nation, respecting 
the discipline) a living, deep, clear ministry ; and remarkably 
so on the women's side. Dear Catherine Phillips labours inde- 
fatigably ; seldom does she sit a meeting through in silence ; 
and in many of them has exceeded any time I remember her in 
America. She is greatly improved. in humility, tenderness and 
sympathy. She has shown much love to us poor little Ameri- 
cans, and has told me she does not expect to be continued 
much longer in mutability. Hannah Wigham is a solid, agree- 
able friend. Also, Martha Routh, Mary Proud, and Mary 
Prior, — these are all from Yorkshire, and lively ministers. 
Thou wouldst love them ail as I do. Alice Rigg, an enterpri- 
sing skilful workwoman, is from the same place. She plead nobly 
before the men's meeting. Mary Leaver looks much as she 
did ; enquired kindly after Friends in America. She and E. 
Gibson desired love to thee." 

It appears that prior to this time, the queries were not an- 
swered by the Women's Yearly Meeting of London. Thirty- 
one years previous, a proposition was made for the establish- 
ment of a regular Women's Yearly Meeting. Tho' united with 
by many friends, it was then postponed, as was also the case 
when revived some years afterward ; one friend remarking, 
" I see it but not now — I behold it but not nigh." A commu- 
nication from R. J., enforcing the propriety of it, had such 
place as to induce the action which is recorded in the following 
minute of Women's Yearly Meeting, bearing date the 5th of 
Sixth month, 1784. 

"It coming weightily under the consideration of this Meeting, the 
great loss it sustains for want of its being regularly constituted a 
Meeting for Discipline, the following Friends are desired to lay the con- 
cern before our men Friends now sitting, and bring in a report to our 
next adjournment,— viz : Esther Tuke, Elizabeth Gibson, Alice Rigg, 
Christiana Hustler, Mercy Ransom, Martha Routh, Tabitha Middleton, 



REBECCA JONES. 65 

Susannah Row, and Sarah Corbyn, in which service the company of 
the women Friends from America would be truly acceptable."* 

This dignified deputation, leaving their own meeting still in 
session, proceeded to that of the men, some of whom were un- 
prepared for the proposition. A part of the discussion which 
ensued, is too familiar to our readers to need insertion here. One 
Friend expressed the sentiment that it would be preposterous to 
have a body with two heads, to which R. J. responded that there 
was but one head to the body which is the church, and that in 
Christ Jesus male and female are one. A note in H. Cathrall's 
hand, says : " My R. Jones informs me that Alice Rigg plead 
nobly in the men's meeting, and M. Routh silenced David Bar- 
clay. I perceive by a letter to J. P., he surrendered very un- 
willingly." 

This deliberation resulted in the issuing of an epistle setting 
forth the rise and use of the Discipline, and encouraging women 
Friends to attend to their share of it. In alluding to this mea- 
sure, Catharine Phillips remarks : " As mothers of children, and 
mistresses of families, they have an extensive service to attend 
to, and ought to be concerned, so to discipline their families, as 
to be able to answer the several queries relative to their situa- 
tion." 

Samuel Neale, in reference to the proposition as opened by 
these women friends, says : — " The evidence of Truth strongly 
impressed the minds of those present with a sense of their con- 
cern being right, and Friends concurred so heartily with them, 
that a minute was made to that purpose at the next sitting of 
the meeting ; and a copy of the said minute was handed to the 
women friends by a deputation from the men's meeting. Robert 
Valentine, William Tuke and I were the deputies. We had a 
good time among them, and left them in sweet peace." 

* The ministering Friends from America in attendance at this meet- 
ing, were Robert Valentine, Williai;! Matthews, Nicholas Wain, Samuel 
Emlen, Thomas Ross, George Dillwyn, Rebecca Wright, Patience Bray- 
ton, Mehetabel Jenkins, and Rebecca Jones. There were several other 
messengers from America at that time in Great Britain, who were not 
at the Yearly Meeting. 

G* 



66 MEMORIALS OF 

The following is the minute of the men's meeting in the case, 

bearing the same date with the women's minute. 

« This meeting, after a solid and deliberate consideration of the pro- 
position brought in from the Meeting of Women Friends, held annu- 
ally in this city, agrees that the said Meeting be at liberty to correspond 
in writing with the Quarterly Meetings of Women Friends ; to receive 
accounts from them, and issue such advice, as in the wisdom of Truth, 
from time to time, may appear necessary, and conducive to their mutual 
edification. For this purpose it will be expedient that the said meeting 
be a meeting of record, and be denominated the Yearly Meeting of 
Women Friends, held m London ; yet such meeting is not to be so far 
considered a meeting of Discipline, as to make rules, nor yet alter the 
present queries, without the concurrence of this meeting." 

Our readers will be amused with an extract from a letter writ- 
ten the 10th of the same month, by one of those who dissented 
from the above conclusion, but who evinced commendable candor, 
in admitting that he had been actuated by prejudice, and that he 
had received a salutary lesson of condescension. 

After bearing his testimony to the value of the " instrumental 
help,'' and expressing his sentiment that the Yearly Meeting had 
been " much favored every way," he adds — " The most remark- 
able occurrence this time was, that the women have obtained a 
point which they have long thirsted after — that is, a Yearly 
Meeting, regularly established by representatives from the Quar- 
terly meetings. So thou may, at some future meeting, be a 
member of this female Parliament, who, if they take it into their 
heads, may recollect that they may, like Solomon's crown be 
placed above the head (as told the audience at a wed- 
ding.) 

I was no favorer of this measure, well knowing that Pow'er 
is a dangerous tool in some hands, who, if one gives them an 
inch, may take an ell. And so strong was my prejudice against 
it, that, though most of the solid part of the men (and all the 
women to be sure) seemed to favor it under a right influence, 
yet I felt it not. Thus I have however obtained a teachable les- 
son of the strength and danger of prejudice, as well as to learn 



REBECCA JONES. 67 

condescension to such as are entitled to it : — for to set my own 
judgment and feeling in opposition to my superior-^ would be a 
presumption that I should not pardon myself for." 



CHAPTER IV. 

1784—1785. 

Contrast by Enoch Lewis between the state of our Society in R. J.'s 
day and in our own. She attends London Yearly Meeting and en- 
ters on her travels northward — Letter to and from various friends — 
Dream respecting John Reynell and its realization — Family visit 
at Bradford — Returns to London — Requests a meeting with her 
American fellow laborers— Anniversary of her arrival inadvertently 
kept. 

Her memoranda of the time spent in Great Britain and Ire- 
land, (every day of which is noted,) are, in some particulars, 
curious and minute, and doubtless were designed to assist her 
memor)' in the preparation of an auto-biographical memoir, to 
which task, though her humility shrunk from it, she at times 
felt her mind drawn. They do not, however, assume the form 
of a regular religious diary, and afford very little aid to the 
present compilation. In a neat and compact form, we find ta- 
bles of the meetings of that nation, lists of the ministers, and of 
all the Friends residing in the different places visited, with 
other minutiae. The deficiency in the diary is in a great mea- 
sure supplied by her letters, and would be wholly so could we 
have access to all that were written. A mere narrative of her 
journeyings might be comprised from these, but to divest it of 
the portions which are only appropriate to the epistolary style, 
would deprive the general reader of much that might prove in- 
structive, and lessen the interest of these memoirs to the numer- 
ous class of individuals to whom her memory is still fresh. The 
compiler moreover is desirous of presenting the subject in her 
words, rather than in his own. 



68 MEMORIALS OF 

We offer no apology for inserting the following interesting ob- 
servations, which form part of an editorial in Friends Review, 
and which were written in especial reference to this portion of 
our narrative, the able and venerable editor being one who well 
knows the things whereof he writes. 

" The memorials of Rebecca Jones, and especially the part which 
has recently appeared in the Review, must recall to the memory of such 
Friends as, like the Editor, have nearly, reached the western verge of 
life, the condition of our religious society at the time when R. Jones' 
visit to England was performed, We find by the narrative before us, 
that no fewer than five Friends in the ministry, who were engaged in the 
love of the gospel to visit the churches on the other side of the Atlantic, 
were passengers in the Commerce. Of these, four were members of 
Philadelphia Yearly Meeting, residing in or near this city. At the same 
time we find that two Philadelphia Friends were there, John Pemberton 
and Nicholas Wain, travelling in religious service in England or Ire- 
land. Thus it appears that at least six eminent ministers, all residing 
within a few miles of Philadelphia, were then engaged on a mission of 
love to the British Islands. Simultaneously with these visits, or shortly 
afterwards, a number of European Friends traversed the parts of the 
United States where members of the society were located. This inter- 
change of gospel messengers was then going on between the people 
of two nations, whom their respective governments had, a short time 
before, placed, as far as governments could place them, in the attitude 
of enemies. The epistolary correspondence which was maintained 
between our Yearly Meeting and that of London, and the mutual visits 
which were paid by ministers and others immediately after the revolu- 
lutionary contest, may be considered as conclusive evidence that the 
storms of that turbulent period had no power to estrange the minds of 
Friends, on difierent sides of the ocean, from each other, or to interrupt 
the harmony which, as professors of the same faith, and advocates of 
the same cause, they had always maintained. 

Whether the same cordiality of religious fellowship is experienced 
in our day, is a question which very naturally presents to the reflective 
mind, but which we shall not answer, either positively or negatively. 
Of one thing we may speak without hesitation. The reciprocation of 
gospel messengers has very visibly declined since the period in ques- 
tion ; and the number of those, on both sides of the Atlantic, who are 
clothed with the gifts of apostleship appears greatly reduced. A com- 
parison of the society at these different periods, forcibly revives the 
inquiry, "Your fathers, where are they? and the prophets, do they 



REBECCA JONES. 69 

live forever?" and upon whom has their mantle fallen? Has our 
religious society retained its position in the van of civilization and re- 
form, or has it fallen behind? These questions we leave to he answered 
as the judgment and observation of our readers shall suggest-" 

After having attended twenty meetings in London, (including 
the Yearly Meeting,) our friend on the 12th of 6th month, ac- 
companied by Christiana Hustler, T. Corbyn, and Adey Bel- 
lamy, went to Colchester Quarterly Meeting, taking her abode 
at John Kendall's. After this, and a meeting at Manningtree, 
the following letter was written at Dykes Alexander's, to her old 
friend John Pemberton, then in Ireland. 

R. Jones to John Pemberton. 

Needham^ in Suffolk, 6th mo. 17th, 1784. 

Esteemed friend, — I was much disappointed, amon-g others, in 
not meeting with thee at London. I suppose by the return of 
S. Neale and J. Gough, thou hast been furnished with a partic- 
ular account of the Yearly Meeting, and, among other things, 
what is concluded upon respecting the Women's Meeting. I de- 
sired S. F. to send thee a copy of the minute on that head. My 
heart was made thankful in that the women's application car- 
ried the weighty evidence of Truth with it, and that men Friends 
were made so feelingly sensible thereof, that they yielded as 
brethren. 

I have no doubt that my arrival in this land is a matter of as- 
tonishment to thee, as well as to many more, who do know 
what a poor feeble creature I am. But, having resigned my 
life and all into the Lord's hand, I have witnessed preservation 
over the mighty deep (our passage being four weeks from land 
to land, without any storm, in an easy ship, with an obliging, 
kind Captain,) and was kept quiet in mind during the voyage, 
trusting in the Providence of the Almighty, who has been rich 
in mercy towards me, an unworthy servant. Blessed be his 
great name ! 

During my stay in London, which was two weeks, my path 
was in the way of silent tribulation, and at times very low, 



70 MEMORIALS OF 

yet content to suffer with the seed, remembering that declara- 
tion, " Where I am there shall my servant be." And now, 
having attended the Quarterly Meeting at Colchester, and pro- 
ceeding towards Woodbridge and Norwich Quarterlies, I don't 
see how I may be directed afterwards, whether to proceed into 
Yorkshire before the cold weather or not. I see very little at a 
time ; thou knowest it used to be so with me, and I am as poor 
a thing as at any time heretofore when abroad. But my earn- 
est prayer is that I may be kept in childlike simplicity, and in 
an humble, watchful frame of mind ; and indeed the little op- 
portunity I have had among Friends here, has furnished me al- 
ready with a prospect of the need of steady circumspection and 
holy fear, to step along rightly and safely amongst the wise and 
great in this world. I can say of a truth I am willing to ap- 
pear as a fool in their eyes ; if but favored with the great Mas- 
ter's presence, it is enough. 

Thou hast my true sympathy in thy particular allotment, 
and a degree of faith springs in my heart, that thou wilt, ere 
long, see thy way out of Ireland, and, I hope, be fraught with 
sheaves of solid peace and satisfaction of mind. And if, in di- 
vine direction, we should fall in with each other, it would be to 
me truly comfortable. But I dare not desire anything of that 
sort, only that, however little my appearance among the tribes, 
and feeble my endeavours towards the promotion of the great 
cause, I may be preserved from bringing any sort of blemish 
thereon — for it is in my view precious beyond all things. 

P. Brayton and M. Jenkins have gone towards Yorkshire — 
N. W. is there.. T left the other Americans at London ; C. 
Hustler being my companion, and Ralph Bainbridge, of Dur- 
ham, with us. 

Thy dear spouse has opened her heart and house to my dear 
H. C, who will, for a time, abide with her. 

My H. C. could not yield with perfect resignation and clear- 
ness to a prospect under which she had laboured for some time 
of accompanying me ; it was too great an indulgence ; we were 
not to be gratified ; and whether she may feel it again revived, 



REBECCA JONES 71 

I cannot tell ; but of this I am fully convinced, that her desire 
of soul is to do right, and I trust, if she sees her way, and is 
helped along, she will be of service amongst Women Friends in 
this nation, who are in want of suitable help in the discipline, 
and thou knowest she is peculiarly gifted therefor. 

I feel the precious unity whilst I am writing, and in it can 
freely subscribe myself thy poor little affectionate friend and 
sister, R. J. 

R. J. TO Henry Drinker. 

JLeiston Abbey, about 17 miles N. E of Wbodbridge, 

6th mo. 2Sd, 1784. 

Yesterday, after the Quarterly Meeting at Wood bridge, being 
low, poor and disconsolate, I received a few lines from my good 
neighbour, brother and friend. H. D., which, being the first in- 
telligence from my beloved native land, did revive me. The re- 
moval of that little valiant man, A. Benezet, will be a sensible 
chasm. But I remember from whence he derived his qualifica- 
tions, and that the Divine fountain is inexhaustible. I feel, as 
I should do, on the occasion, and for dear Joyce, who is not far 
from the same peaceful mansion. It is truly comfortable to 
hear that I have a place in the affections of thy family. May 
they increase in every durable good. I note thy kind desire 
for my " growth in faith, strength, and love which casteth out 
all slavish fear," and I add to the necessary train, humility and 
childlike simplicity. 

My situation whilst on the voyage and in London, will, I ex- 
pect, be imparted in that freedom which subsists between H. C. 
and thee. I left that city on the 12th, having worthy Christi- 
ana Hustler my companion. She has felt for me. T. Corbyn 
went with us to Colchester — attended that Quarterly Meeting — 
took a few [Manningtree, Needham and Ipswich,] in the way to 
that at Woodbridge. That being over, we are now on our way 
to Norwich Quarterly Meeting ; after which I hope to wait for 
right direction. Thou knowest I am a little one, and such dont 
see far at a time. What a favor that it is so ! 

Dear Henry, dont forget thy feeble sister. My heart is earn- 



72 MEMORIALS OF 

estly desirous that I may be kept where only true safety is 
known, and I have felt very peaceful while sitting and looking 
like a fool amongst the great, wise and good. Several feeling 
Friends have been helpful in sympathy. I have admired at it, 
as my case has been quietly concealed within ; but the heaven- 
ly fellowship enters deeper than words, and in it I have found 
comfort and sweetness. 

R. Valentine had a certificate signed for returning. 

On comparing the date of thy note with the memorandums 
made at sea, I find by my note of the 16th, that thy pen was 
under right direction. So be encouraged in future to do " what 
thy hand finds to do." I feel as I approach Norwich, much in 
the same situation as when drawing near London, and feel as 
willing to appear like a fool ; so that I may be kept in my 
place, is my earnest desire. 

Norwich, 7th mo. 1st.* — The Quarterly Meetmg here, ended 
yesterday. Wm. Matthews and E. Gibson, with divers others 
from a distance, attended ^ and though in many instances there 
is abundant cause of lamentation and mourning, yet the pre- 
cious visitation of divine love was remarkably extended to the 
young people, many of whom were bowed under it. My heart 
was secretly comforted and raised in hope, that some of them will 
be preserved under it, and be made useful vessels in the family. 
Many of the youth here and in London are wide in their ap- 
pearance from the ancient standard of plainness; but there is a 
tender part in them, so very susceptible, that 'tis beautiful to be- 
hold, and what I have often wished was the case with the gay 
and thoughtless among that class in my native city more gener- 
ally. Upon the whole, it may be said with thankfulness, there 
is yet a solid number in this place, who are, under the present 
low state of things, much depressed. Among whom are partic- 
ularly, worthy Edward Gurney and sister Mary, &c. 

As to future movements, I rather think my face will in a few 
days be turned towards Yorkshire. 

*At the house of John Garney, father of J. ^. G., E. Fry, &c. 



REBECCA JONES. 73 

N. Wain, P. Brayton, and M. Jenkins, are now in York- 
shire. T. Ross and S. Emlen are in London, detained by 
Thomas's indisposition and bad leg, he having hurt it on ship 
board. I am afraid it will be tedious, if not worse.* G. D. 
yet in London. R. W. with a friend from Manchester has 
gone that way, and dear J. Pemberton is yet in the gloomy 
confines of Ireland. I should rejoice in his release therefrom. 
Salute me to thy household, and to all other mj^dear friends 
who are too numerous to name particularly. May the Lord be 
near you, and keep me truly dependent on Him, is the prayer 
of thy obliged friend and sister. 



R. J. TO Hannah Pemberton. 

Norivich, ItJi mo. 1st. 
I have been kept in the patience, and can, of a truth, say, 
the Lord hath been very gracious to me, a poor, unworthy 
creature, both by sea and land. And it is the prayer of my 
heart, that I may be kept humbly dependent upon Him alone, 
without whose renewed aid nothing can be availingly done in 
this day of grievous revolt and deep backsliding. Yet there 
is a comfortable prospect among the youth here, which will, I 
trust, as they keep under the sweet visitation with which they 
have been favoured, make some of them honourable, as, in the 
beginning, our forefathers were. 



From R. J. to John Pemberton. 

Thorn, the edge of Yorkshire, at N. Bearman's, 1th mo. 22d, 
1784. 

Much esteemed friend, — Thy truly acceptable salutation of 
the 28th of last month, I received at Lynn, the 11th of this, and 
at a time that rendered its contents the more valuable, as my 
mind was very weak and low. I am truly thankful that I am 

•It proved the cause of bis death. 
7 



74 MEMORIALS OF 

yet counted worthy of a place in thy affectionate remembrance, 
whose brotherly sympathy I much desire may be continued. 

R. Valentine with S. Fisher, I expect, sailed on the 16th in 
the Commerce, Capt. Truxton, who, I hope, will be as kind 
to them as he was to us, for he behaved to us with great cour- 
tesy and respect. I understand N. W. and M. Jenkins are gone 
into Scotland. The latter I expect, intends for Ireland. I 
have had no late account from T.Ross, whose leg was badly hurt 
at London. G. Dillwyn and S. Emlen were also there. R 
Wright is still with M. Routh, in the midland counties, and P. 
Brayton, I hear, is gone back to London, 

I note the account of thy situation. I feel deeply with thee 
under it, and trust in the Lord's time thou'lt be released ; still 
having a hope it will not be long before thou art set at liberty 
to come into this nation again, where, if I am favored to meet 
thee, I shall rejoice. 

Hitherto, since I left London, I have been helped with a little 
strength from day to day to step along in the line of duty, and 
as thou observes respecting thyself — " trust the good cause has 
not been dishonored," and am sincerely desirous that I may- 
be kept truly dependent on the all sufficient Helper of his people 
in childlike simplicity and humihty. Great need I find to be^ 
watchful, lest by a conformity to some customs which have 
crept in amongst this people, strength should be given to that 
part which stands opposed to the plain self-denying path into 
which our worthy predecessors were divinely drawn and ena- 
bled to walk. My mind is often led to admire why so many 
servants from a distance should be employed in this part of the 
vineyard, and as often I am led to believe 'tis for some good and 
valuable purpose. Oh that nothing may be suffered to lay 
waste the service intended, but that we may all steadily eye the 
great Shepherd, and that he may be graciously pleased to furnish 
with strength and wisdom in all our movements to the praise of 
His worthy name, and the real benefit of the churches, is the 
humble prayer of thy truly affectionate friend and sister. 

R. J. 



REBECCA JONES. 75 

26th. *P. S. — T. Ross has gone for Bristol in order for Ire- 
land. S. Nottingham is now in London. I have heard of the 
death of Thomas Millhouse. Since writing the above, George 
Dillwyn and S. Emlen are gone for Holland. I am now at 
Ackworth much tried, and in poor trim every way ; yet my 
mind has been for some time and remains so feelingly dipped 
into sympathy with thee in thy present and late particular ex- 
ercise, tliat 1 have often been on the inquiry, and am now in- 
formedf that thou hast been led in so singular a line, that must 
have been deeply trying, I know, to thee. May the Lord, dear 
John, be with thee, and furnish with best wisdom in all thy move- 
ments, (which, I have no doubt, has hitherto been the case,) and, 
if it be His will, give thee a release in mercy, with the income 
of solid peace. My heart again salutes thee and bids farewell. 

R. J. 



R. J. TO H. Cathrall. 

Undercliff, near Bradford, Yorkshire, 

8th mo, 6th, 1784. 
Sitting quietly in my chamber this morning thinking about 
thee, Sally, the eldest daughter of my truly kind friend and fel- 
low helper, C. Hustler, came up Vv^ith thy salutation of the 4th 

* At Thomas Proctor's, Selb)% 

fJohn Pemberton, while on this visit, as well as at some other times, 
found his mind engaged in a manner which has not been common of 
latter times, with ministers of our Religious Society. He was not only 
engaged in the appointment of meetings where no Friends resided, and 
where meetings of Friends had not been previously held, and in visit- 
ing the prisoners confined in the jails ; but he apprehended himself 
called to walk through the streets of Londonderry, and preach repent- 
ance to the people there. To this concern he at length gave up, after 
a long and painful struggle. It is probable that this singular engage- 
ment was one of those to which R. Jones alluded in the letter before us. 

It was much to the credit of the people of Londonderry that no insult 
was offered to our Friend while employed in this remarkable mission. 
Exercises of a similar kind are several times noted in the early history 
of the Society; but the conduct of the populace was often very differ- 
ent from that which J. Pemberton experienced. — Editor of Friends' Re' 



76 MEMORIALS OF 

of last month, which, with three others received, I enter No. 4, 
and wish thou wouldst in future number them, as I should then 
know how many are written ; and as mine are all numbered, I 
wish to know whether all have come to hand. 

I find by thy last that thou art comfortably accommodated at 
H. P.'s, for which I am thankful ; but thou art still in an exer- 
cised path. May Divine wisdom be thy safe director, counsellor 
and strength. I have no doubt that as thou and I stand resigned 
in our wills to the Lord, who has been so rich in mercy towards 
us, we shall find grace to help in time of need. 

I have from time to time given thee a particular account of 
my stoppings in this land, which have been in great weakness 
and fear, deeply bowed under a sense of the present state of so- 
ciety, and of my inequality to the necessary labor of the day : 
yet often confirmed in hope that it is the line of duty, and 1 am 
therefore desirous to be kept in a steady trust and dependence on 
him, who, as I do believe, has required this sacrifice at my 
hands, and whom my spirit feelingly acknowledges to be worthy 
to be served, loved and obeyed. 

I have been this week at John Hustler's, resting and refitting, 
and his amiable spouse appears willing to bear me company a 
while longer, which I esteem a favor. We have been much 
united in spirit and labor. We have now meetings laid out in 
the west riding of Yorkshire, in order to be at some of the twelve 
Monthly Meetings which constitute this Quarterly Meeting which 
falls out the beginning of next month, and after that may per- 
haps proceed towards New Castle ; but I see my way so gradu- 
ally, that I hardly dare say where next; only may tell thee that 
I am desirous of falling in with Monthly and Quarterly Meet- 
ings, which will, I expect, make more riding. And as to some 
places, it will be impracticable in a chaise ; don't know how I 
shall be able to bear trotting on horseback. As yet, I am fa- 
vored with C. H.'s chaise, which has conveyed us above five 
hundred miles. 

In my last I gave thee an account of the Americans as far as 
I knew, and have not heard since about them. 



REBECCA JONES. 77 

My love to thy connexions is not lessened — tell them so— 
and persuade dear R. for me, that she will feel more true sat- 
isfaction in conforming to the blessed witness in her own mind, 
than in any gratification that can possibly arise from the indul- 
gence of a vain and airy appearance in her future arduous move- 
ments. I have the same desire on account of J. He does know 
better ; but oh this conformity to the spirit and fashions of a de- 
generate age, how it does fetter the hearts of the beloved youth ! 
May their bonds be burst asunder by the Power of Truth, and 
they be brought under its humbling operation ! Dear, very dear 
iove to all my friends as if named ; mine to thee is not to be 
conveyed by pen and ink : feel me therefore in that which has 
kept and will for ever keep us near in Spirit, as we abide with 
it, and under its influence. 



To Hannah Pemberton, (wife of John Pemberton, then m 
England.) 

Undercliff, 8tk mo 6th, 1764. 

Dear Friend, — * * * j expect thou wilt often hear of 
thy precious J. P. who was well, and fervently engaged in his 
good Master's service. May he be sustained, for the harvest is 
truly great, and faithful laborers but few ; and thou wilt also 
have thy reward, if thou art as careful in the line of improve- 
ment. And when you are favored to meet again, may you be 
each other's joy and comfort in the Lord. As to this climate, 
very few days but have borne a fire morning and evening, and 
i am at times pinched with cold. If there happens a moderate 
day, the people here complain of oppressive heat. * * 

The easy mode of travelling with which I have been favored, 
calls for thankfulness. Love to all thine and thy husband's re- 
lations, also to E. Clark, R. Jackson, Phebe and Oranock,* and 
accept a large share thyself from thy loving friend, R. J 

• John and Hannah Pemberton's black man. 

7 * 



78 MEMORIALS OF 

The following letter to a young physican, then prosecuting his 
studies in England, and who afterwards became eminent and 
honorable in his profession, is not only interesting as reviving 
his memory, but may also be serviceable to other travellers in 
pursuit of knowledge. Our readers will scarcely need to be in- 
formed of the realization of the desire expressed in the closing 
sentence. 



To Caspar Wistar, M. D. 

Undercliff, 8th mo. 9th, 1784. 
As in all probability I may not have an opportunity of seeing 
thee again for some time, (if at all in England, or ever,) and 
feeling an earnest desire of heart for thy preservation from the 
many dangerous snares so peculiarly awaiting thy present ex- 
posed situation, and that thou mayest be so happily conducted 
in the line of true rectitude, in thy general conduct, as well as 
for thy better improvement in that which is really valuable, and 
suiting the dignity of a candidate for an eternally enriching prize; 
I thought that consistently with my duty, I could not forbear 
apprising thee of the necessity of endeavoring carefully, in the 
course of thy travels, and especially when among ** men of cor- 
rupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith," to maintain the 
watch, lest whilst thou art making an improvement in matters 
relating'to thy medical knowledge, the better part in thee should 
receive essential damage, and which would be prevented by a 
steady resolution uniformly to maintain the noble character of a 
Quaker, despising the shame, which thou in moments of weak- 
ness mayest conclude consequent thereon. Hereby not only 
solid satisfaction of mind would be witnessed, which is more truly 
desirable than the approbation or applause of the gay and irre- 
ligious part of mankind can possibly furnish, but even the de- 
served esteem of the judicious, wise and good. I consider thee 
as a fellow citizen whom I have known from an infant ; as the 
son of a pious mother, who, as well as thy father, was anxiously 



REBECCA JONES. 79 

concerned for thy welfare, both as a man and a Christian ; and as 
a youth inexperienced, and in thy present situation much exposed 
to numberless temptations. All these considerations, dear Caspar, 
induce me thus, in much affection, to intreat thee steadily to ad- 
here to the blessed principle of divine grace, to the monition 
whereof, J trust thou art no stranger. Suffer its restraining in- 
fluence to have due place in thy heart, and be not ashamed of 
its tendering effects : and then instead of falling a prey to that 
spirit of dissipation and licentiousness which has captivated and 
drawn so many from the simplicity of the truth, tijou wilt rise 
superior to all the attempts of the power of darkness, and be 
enabled to resist even the " appearance of evil." I mean not to 
suggest from any observations I have made, that thou art more 
in danger than other young travellers, nor has any part of thy 
conduct been represented as exceptionable ; far otherwise ; I 
rather hope that there has of later time, and especially when 
under difficulties arising from bodily weakness, etc., been a de- 
sire possessed by thee to improve in things of greatest moment ; 
and am therefore the more concerned on thy account that these 
good desires may be cherished, and that, under the conduct of 
the holy fear of the Lord, thy future stoppings may be ordered in 
His wisdom ; that thy days here, whether few or many, may be 
spent in such manner as that thy life may be truly honorable, 
and thy close peaceful and happy. 

Accept this salutation as the fruit of love from thy cordial 
friend, R. J. 



R. Jones to James Pemberton. 

Ayton^ 171 Yorkshire, 9th mo. I6lh, 1784. 

Esteemed Friend, — My sympathy with thy beloved brother 

John is such, that I have often been on the enquiry respecting 

him, as I was greatly disappointed in not seeing him on my first 

landing, and knowing thy concern must be great on his account, 



80 MEMORIALS OF 

I seem disposed this evening (though fatigued) to begin some ac- 
count in this way, and to let thee know that from good informa- 
tion I have reason to believe he is in the way of his duty, and 
greatly owned and supported under the uncommon exercises that 
have fallen to his lot, and that he is favored v/ith a steady, wor- 
thy ministering friend, Thomas Cash, of Cheshire, for a com- 
panion. This Friend went into Ireland the last spring with Isaac 
Gray, of Hitchin, who died very suddenly at Tober Head, after 
which T. C. joined dear John, and having the like draught among 
the people at large, they appear suitably yoked. He still con- 
tinues in that nation, quietly resigned to the Lord's will, and has 
great place and acceptance generally. I have no doubt that he 
is under best care and direction, and will be helped along, and 
released when his service in that nation is over. 

And now I may inform thee how I have been engaged since 
my landing in this nation. I left London 6th mo. 12th, in com- 
pany with Christiana Hustler, of Yorkshire, who being at the 
Yearly Meeting, lodged at Joseph Gurney Bevan's, which was 
also my quarters : and she having felt her mind engaged on my 
account, has continued with me ever since, visiting most of the 
meetings in Norfolk, Lincolnshire, part of Essex, and Suffolk, 
and now in this county, most of which we have gone through, 
expecting to be at the Quarterly Meeting in York the last two 
days in this month, after which I cannot say, as I see but little 
at a time, and continue among the little ones. My mind seems 
turned towards the Monthly Meetings, but they lie so widely that 
it occasions more riding and industry necessary ; but being ac- 
commodated with John Hustler's horse and chaise, and his 
spouse being an excellent pilot, we have steered in safety thus 
far, through hills, moors, and variety that is to be met with in 
this mountainous part of the world called Yorkshire, and am 
often bowed in humble thankfulness to the Almighty, who, bless- 
ed be His great name, hath been rich in mercy and kindness to 
me, a poor, unworthy creature ; and my dear friend and true 
helpmeet, before named, being willing to take me under her truly 
motherly wing, is not one of the least of the favors for which I 



REBECCA JONES. 81 

have to be thankful. This is increased by the sense of gospel 
unity which is felt mutually in our religious labors as we pass 
from place to place, finding the state of things in most places to 
be exceedingly low, especially in the Meetings for Discipline 
amongst women Friends, though there is an honest number who 
are bewailing the present sorrowful declension, and these are a 
little comforted in the prospect of some relief; but alas ! unless 
the Lord is pleased to help, in vain is the help of man. At times 
I have felt a secret hope that there is a reviving, and that the 
Most High will yet show himself strong in behalf of the sorrow- 
ful few who have indeed hung their harps as upon the willows. 
There is a precious visitation of divine love extended to the 
youth, and many of them are under the humbling, forming hand, 
who, if they abide patiently under the holy fan and fire, will be 
made in the Lord's time useful and honorable in their genera- 
tion, for the rebuilding of the walls of our Zion, that are in many 
places so sadly broken down ; and repairing the breaches that 
are so conspicuous. 

Though I feel my own great weakness, yet am I sustained 
mercifully in assurance that this sacrifice was called for at my 
hands by Hir)i who has an undoubted right to my all, and who, 
my soul can say, has been all things to me that I have stood in 
need of. And as thou knowest I have not attained to great 
things, I may inform thee I have nothing in desire more than 
the exaltation of the pure testimony, however the creature may 
be abased, which has frequently been my experience, being 
often deeply dipped under a sense of the greatness of the work, 
and the feebleness of the instrument engaged therein, insomuch 
that I have cried out, " who is sufficient for these things ?" 

My fellow laborers from America, are, I believe, all well, and 
scattered up and down in this nation of Ireland. N. W., by his 
increase of flesh, looked finely at the Yearly Meeting. I have 
not seen him nor any of the others since, except W. M., who is 
now in Scotland. 

Have been twice at Friends' boarding school at Ackworth, 
which is a fine institution, and a blessing to the youth. Up- 



82 MEMORIALS OF 

wards of 300 are now there under the tuition of pious mistresses 
especially, (I say mistresses, because my concern was more 
towards the females ; I hope the masters are, several of them, 
religiously engaged,) and proposals are on foot for another 
boarding school for girls only, intended for the accommodation 
of 40 or 50 girls, to be established at York, under the particular 
inspection of Esther Tuke, who is truly a mother in Israel ; and 
seems to think, though her constitution has had several alarm- 
ing shocks of late, that her time will be prolonged till the school 
is established ; and I am inclined to think it will be of great use 
and benefit to the female part of society. Indeed, in a general 
way, Friends here seem more attentive to their daughters' educa- 
tion than in some parts of our country. They are mostly good 
pen-women, and read with propriety. * * * 

I am ready to conclude, from a dream lately had of John 
Reynell, that he is either gone, or near going to the house ap- 
pointed for all living. I hope the continuance of kind notice and 
regard from thee and other Friends to my dear partner, for 
whom I have felt deeply. May best wisdom be her counsellcy: 
and sure friend. * # * 

Thou mayest, with my love, inform S. Wain that her husband 
is acceptably among Friends here in the way of his duty ; the 
like, I hope, niay be said of all the others. * * * I hope 
dear R. V. is by this time arrived, with S. F. and S. G., and 
should like to hear how they made out with our Captain, who, 
on our account, deserves the esteem of our Friends ; Robert has 
left a good savor on the minds of Friends here. Oh, I am 
afraid of none of my fellow servants, but on my own account, 
I am in great fear, lest I fail in fulfilling the gracious intention 
of Him who, in the riches of his mercy, visited my soul in early 
life, and called by his grace into an acquaintance with himself 
by the working of His mighty power in my heart, and changing 
it, both in desire and affection, so that, as a brand plucked from 
the burning, have I been rescued from impending ruin, and now 
engaged for the good of others ! that they may come, taste, and 
see for themselves that the Lord is good. These considerations 



REBECCA JONES. g3 

are to me very humbling, and lead fervently to breathe after 
continued preservation, that I may, indeed, so run as to obtain, 
so fight as to gain the prize which is reserved for the end of 
this arduous race, and is often animatingly in my view, being 
feelingly convinced that "of ourselves we can do nothing," and 
I therefore desire that my dependence may be only on Him who 
can support, direct, and help in every time of need. 

Yesterday I was at Whitby Meeting — the place where so 
many friends were disowned on account of their being concerned 
in vessels carrying guns — and I understand that one of them is 
already reinstated, and that two others have offered an acknow- 
ledgment, which is before Scarborough Monthly Meeting. One 
of the number chose to accompany us to the next meeting at 
Castleton, and, as it was his desire, we did not forbid it, having 
other Friends with us. 

■Ji^ "Jft ^ 5!? =1? 

I am looking forward to the approaching Yearly Meeting at 
Philadelphia. May you be remembered, strengthened and com- 
forted together. * * * 

Helmsley^ 25th. — I remember this day begins the Yearly 
Meeting, and though I believe I am where I ought to be, yet if 
r might spend about ten days now with you, it would be truly 
comfortable. This is not to be ; but my mind is, and will be 
with you, and is strongly desirous that the Master of our as- 
semblies may favor with his blessed presence, and be your 
counsellor, wisdom and stability. 

Farewell, says thy tried friend, 

R. J. 

The dream referred to in the preceding letter, was in sub- 
stance that Samuel Coates had brought to her from John Rey- 
nell, a plate of soup. She told her dream to Esther Tuke, and 
next day a letter arrived from S. C, written in his capacity of 
Executor to J. R., enclosing a legacy of 50/. " Dear Rebecca," 
said Esther, " that is the plate of soup." The removal of this 
valued friend is thus referred to, in a letter to R. J. from Catha- 
rine Howell, dated Edgely, 9th mo., 11th 1784. 



84 MEMORIALS OF 

" In the death of that worthy elder, John Reynell, our So- 
ciety has sustained a loss, and the poor have lost a kind friend, 
he having for the last twenty years allotted one-third of his ex- 
penditures for their relief; and now at the close, he has left one 
thousand pounds, to be handed them, in sums of 5/. each. Also 
the following legacies, as a token of his regard." * * * 

James Pemberton, writing to R. J. the ensuing 2d mo., says : 

" Thy apprehensions respecting our friend John Reynell, ap- 
pear to have been right. At the time thou intimatest, he was 
confined to his chamber, if not', just departed. He was in his 
sickness favored with a composed state of mind, without much 
bodily pain. John deceased the 3d of 9th mo., in the morning, 
and was buried the next day, leaving a fair character for integ- 
rity and stability through life. His judgment and experience 
which were valuable, are also missed among us, particularly in 
the Southern District Meeting. Thou hast, doubtless, been in- 
formed of the token he left of his regard to thyself and divers 
others !" 

From the residence of Wm. Tuke, at York, she writes, 9th 
mo. 29th, 1784, to John Pemberton. 

" Beloved Friend, — Thou art so much the companion of 
my thoughts, and with so much real sympathy under thy varied 
exercises, that I believe it will tend to my own relief at least to 
salute thee again by a few lines, though I have no account 
whether my last reached thee or not. With my dear friend, G. 
Hustler, we have visited most of the meetings in Norfolk and 
Lincolnshire, and have been, for some time, engaged in this 
country ; and having felt a draught particularly to the Monthly 
and Preparative Meetings, has occasioned more riding and in- 
dustry, so that we have had little rest. Being accommodated 
with J. Hustler's chaise, has made it more easy, which, with 
many other favors, is cause of thankfulness to Him who has 
not failed nor forsaken in the time of deepest exercise and trial ; 
for indeed, my dear friend, I may say of a truth, the path 
allotted me in this land, is one of tribulation, and my constant 
breathing is for preservation in the path, that by no part of my 



REBECCA JONES. 85 

conduct, nor yet through impatience under suffering, the gra- 
cious design of infinite wisdom towards me, a poor, unworthy- 
creature, may be frustrated, nor any dishonor brought on the 
blessed and noble cause of Truth. Truly there is little room 
for any other than the language of deep bemoaning ; the glory 
of many in this land has become dimmed and changed. Oh ! 
how has my heart mourned in remembering that in this part of 
the world, where the glorious light of the gospel so eminently 
broke forth, and where so many were gathered from shadows 
and forms, to the living substance and power of Truth, under a 
full persuasion that the Seed of Life reigned and was in do- 
minion, there should be such falling away among the descen- 
dants of the great and good, that in most of the places I have 
visited, there is but little left but the form. The love of the 
world, and a conformity to its customs and friendship, has cap- 
tivated many of all ranks ; the sense whereof leads me some- 
times to believe that " the Lord will visit for these things, and 
be avenged on such a nation as this." Yet there is an honest 
and tried number, up and down, who have a just perception 
and a clear discerning, and who are engaged for the restoration 
of these captives, that there may be a revival of ancient zeal 
and simplicity ; and a precious visitation is extended to the 
rising youth, and those in the middle rank, many of whom will, 
I hope, be brought forward in the Lord's time as workmen and 
women that will not need to be ashamed ; provided they keep 
patiently under the holy forming hand of divine power, which, 
through adorable mercy, is not yet wholly withdrawn from his 
heritage. I did not intend to say so much in this line, but there 
are very few to whom I can disclose my present feelings, except 
C. Hustler, who is a true sympathizing friend, and is willing to 
continue a little longer with me." 

By no means strange was this language of bemoaning, in 
reference to the inhabitants of the nation where G. Fox and his 
associates so nobly testified to the dominion of the seed, and to 
the Power which is over all, and which must eventually subdue 
all things unto itself. In what land, indeed, might not the plain- 

8 



86 MEMORIALS OF 

tive query be raised, " The Fathers^ where are they V — in view 
of the degeneracy of descendants of godly parents, and of the 
worldliness of communities, in the midst of whom the Truth has 
been preached in its simplicity and purity. Feelings, such as 
those above recorded, will often be experienced by the divinely 
commissioned messengers of the eternal word, and they were, 
in after years, renewed to R. J. in various parts of her own 
land. In every country, indeed, and in all time, the children 
of those who have been conspicuously employed in the spread 
of the Redeemer's kingdom, have, in common with all others, 
abundant need of watchfulness and humility, and can only be- 
come their worthy successors as their eyes are fixed upon the 
same unerring Leader, and, as renouncing self, they take up 
their cross daily, following him in the way, and yielding to the 
baptism, wherewith he was baptized. The reader can rejoice, 
however, that in respect to many of those for whom our friend 
was thus exercised, she lived to see the travail of her soul, and 
to be satisfied in the realization of the hope blended with faith, 
which she repeatedly expressed. " I love Yorkshire," she 
subsequently writes, " many Friends in it are near to my very 
life ;" and she proceeds to declare her belief, that " some of the 
present generation there will be preserved, and in the right time 
show themselves to Israel, equipped with the holy armor on the 
right hand and on the left." 

Omitting some passages of less general interest, we now re- 
sume her letter to J. P. 

" I know thy situation in Ireland must have been truly in the 
cross to thy nature, but my mind has been settled in a full per- 
suasion that thou art not following cunningly devised fables, and 
often hearing that thou art mercifully sustained, is cause of re- 
joicing to one who, according to my measure, have often been 
engaged for thy increase in strength and dedication, as well as 
my own. May the lord be near thee, thy bow and battle axe, 
and enable thee to finish the work which in His counsel opens 
to thy view, that thy crown may be weighty and eternal. And 
oh ! may I have a place in thy brotherly remembrance, for thou 



REBECCA JONES. 87 

knowest what a weakling I am ; yet I dare not but acknowledge 
that the Lord has not been wanting, nor do I distrust the suffi- 
ciency of his power for the accomplishment of his own purposes ; 
but weakness and diffidence still attend. 

After this Quarterly Meeting is over, it looks as if we might 
endeavor for that at New Castle, for the county of Durham, and 
some meetings thereabouts. # * * 

Our Yearly Meeting is now sitting. May they be strength- 
ened and comforted togethei. I hope dear R. V. is safely ar- 
rived, and I hear Zachariah Dicks and Ann Jessop are coming 
in the fall as additional ambassadors to these parts. Surely 
something more than common is intended by all these. John 
Parrish and James Cresson have laid before their Monthly Meet- 
ings a concern to visit Barbadoes. S. Hopkins, Thomas 
Scattergood, and John Haughton, &c., have been to the Year- 
ly Meetings eastward. 

I am with endeared sisterly affection and sympathy, thy poor 
little friend, 



^^-d^ 



The following instructive epistle may be perused with benefit 
by parents, and by all who are engaged in the training of youth : 

To E. Alexander. 

Conwood, Northumberland, 1 0th mo. 19th, 1784. 
Dear friend, — Having thee, with thy sister Mary, often in 
my affectionate remembrance since we parted at Norwich, and 
feeling it in a stronger degree this morning, I am willing, by a 
few lines, to let thee know the continuance of my prospect con- 
cerning thee, if by any means I may encourage thy steady 
attention and obedience to that good hand which has tenderly 
visited thy mind, and given thee to see both the emptiness of 
all temporal pleasure, and the beauty, permanency, and excel- 



88 MEMORIALS OF 

lence of the divine principle of truth ; unto which, let me press 
thy steady and uniform adherence, " esteeming the reproaches 
of Christ greater riches than all the treasures of Egypt." I 
know that the enemy of all righteousness is endeavouring by vari- 
ous means to divert the minds of those who are newly awa ken- 
ed to seek an inheritance in divine favor ; and therefore was 
the injunction of the great Master so repeatedly to his disciples — 
"Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation ;" and for 
want of this, many who were " beloved of God, and called to be 
saints," have stumbled on the very threshold of the " narrow 
way," and so made no advances in the path of self-denial. 
Mayst thou therefore be made sensible (after having " seen and 
approved those things which are excellent,") of the necessity of 
yielding obedience to every discovery of the divine will, and by 
an increasing dedication of heart thereunto, be strengthened in 
thy arduous station of a mother, bringing up thy tender offspring 
under the conduct of holy fear, and in a suitable contempt of 
the vanity and folly of this delusive world ; leading them by 
example in the way of the cross, and in an appearance consis- 
tent with the pure principle of truth which we profess, endea- 
vouring, as far as thy influence extends, both to advise and re- 
strain them in their tender years, and to make them acquainted 
with the nature and effects of divine grace in the heart, accord- 
ing to that ability with which thou mayst be furnished from 
ttme to time. I am the more anxious on this head, because I 
believe that unfaithfulness in many parents of the present age 
has not only proved a great loss to their children, but has been 
productive of increasing difficulties to their tender minds in the 
day of their visitation, by the open door that has been made 
for them into the vanity and foolish customs of the degenerate 
days in which we live : so that if thou art wise herein, thou 
wilt not only be " wise for thyself," and grow " strong in faith 
and good works," but wise for them who are not arrived to an 
age to be wise on their own account ; and what is of infi- 
nitely more value than every other consideration, have the "an- 
swer of a good conscience" towards the everlasting Father, who 



REBECCA JONES. §9 

has visited thee with the knowledge of himself, with gracious m 
tentions to establish thee before him for ever. Please communi- 
cate the contents to thy beloved spouse ; he is equally interested 
in all the foregoing, and in my sincere desire for his welfare : 
also thy sister Mary. May she never lose the precious tender- 
ing she was under when we were together. My dear love is to 
them, thy father and self. My companion C. H., whose com- 
pany I am still favored with, and Wm. Matthews, being present, 
unite in the salutation. 

My aforesaid friend and self have been steadily engaged since 
we parted with you, and having taken meetings through most 
of Norfolk, Lincoln, York, and Durhamshires, and this county, 
are about to enter Cumberland, where to receive a few lines 
from thee and dear M., 'will be truly acceptable to thy sincere 
and well-wishing friend, 




We pass over the detail of attendance of meetings in England 
and in Scotland, in which service, though supplied from day to 
day with strength sufficient for each emergency, she was intro- 
duced into feelings of weakness. " Indeed," she says, " no one 
was ever sent abroad who had more need of the prayers of the 
faithful." In this sense of poverty, she found safety in resort- 
ing to the Christian's strong tower, and supplicated that what- 
ever sufferings might be allowed her, she might be kept from 
doing any thing that could injure the blessed cause of Truth. 

The following letter from her faithful friend, Sarah Grubb, 
(Sarah R. Grubb, as she sometimes signed her name by way ot 
necessary distinction,) developes in an interesting manner her 
secret preparation for extensive and weighty religious service. 
It may here be remarked, that the letters of S. Grubb, from 
which it is proposed to make selections, were not in the posses- 
sion of the Friends who prepared her journal, but were so 
valued by R. Jones, that she transcribed them in a book now 
in the compiler's possession. The intrinsic value of these letters, 
will, it is trusted, compensate for the space they may occupy. 



90 MEMORIALS OF 

Saeah Grubb to R. Jones, 

York, 1st mo. 9th, 1785. 
About two weeks ago, being in a distressed, tossed situation 
of mind, respecting the unsettled prospect of our future residence, 
and finding no clear opening of what might prove our lot, either 
in this land or in Ireland, and but little ability to trust and leave 
the disposal to the Lord, I seemed ready to sink under the pres- 
sure of increasing anxiety, especially one day as I sat in meet- 
ing, when through deep, dark proving, I got low enough to 
accept any pointings for peace; my mind was on a sudden 
calmed, and a secret language seemed applied to me, " Thou 
shalt not settle, I have other service for thee." On which I was 
deeply humbled ; and then I thought I perceived an opening 
about the ensuing Third month to accompany my esteemed friend 
R. Jones, to — I know not where. A degree of sweet peace and 
serenity mercifully succeeded, and all that was within me ac- 
knowledged, " good is the Lord." My mind being thus stayed 
as to my past troubles, I endeavored almost continually to ob- 
scure the view I had had, either by makmg to myself new 
objects, or reasoning against this, till I came to the Quarterly 
Meeting, when it forcible presented itself again, and urged me 
to seek a conference with you. 

The idea of being instrumental to part companions, whose 
union and service have not been small to one another, was to me 
so irksome and delicate a point, that I concluded, that whatever 
was the conseqiaence, I would conceal my feelings, not having 
so much as hinted them to any one but my husband after his 
return. But after I got here, the matter still remaining, and 
considering you as mothers, and myself a child, in these char- 
acters, I saw nothing to fear (either to you or myself) from this 
simple communication. As I believe it posssible for very distant 
services, to be brought so near us (in order to subject our minds) 
as that we may widely mistake the time for the accomplishment 



REBECCA JONES. gj 

of them, if we run after the vision when it would withdraw and 
leave us. And if in this, or other respects, I am erring, your 
superior experience and present sense divinely afforded, may, 
instead of hurting me, prove of lasting benefit. Wherefore I 
leave it." 

In a letter addressed to Esther Tuke, R. J., after speaking 
affectionately of S. Grubb, says : " I have received her loving, 
modest and prudent offer to help a poor creature, a little one : 
which with thine of a chaise, &c., makes me feel very humble 
that such way should be made for me in the hearts of those who 
* love the cause of Truth in sincerity. Indeed, I have admired 
at it, knowing my little feeble estate, and thinking that by this 
time you must know it pretty well." The following, from the 
same letter, we quote as bearing upon the present subject ; — 
'' Thou canst not think how much good thou hast done me by 
thy several free hints, especially thy reviving the charge ' whom 
the Lord hath joined, let not man put asunder.' And as I be- 
lieve it was the Master's will that C. Hustler and R. Jones should 
be joined so far, so I am comforted in the belief that nothing of 
an inferior nature has attempted to separate. By this thou will 
understand how kindly we take both thy letters to us, and dear 
S. Grubb's. Oh what an unspeakable privilege they enjoy, 
whose foundation is on that Rock, against which, as thou wisely 
observest, ' the gates of hell cannot prevail.' These are not 
disposed to misconstrue the fruits of love and freedom, but 
wisely to improve thereby ; which is, my dear friend my desire." 



S. Grubb to R. J. 

Foster, 1st mo. 11th, 1785. 
Beloved Friend, — I am obliged by thy favor in so early 
replying to mine from York, and particularly for thy affection- 
ate freedom contained therein. The suspense was short and 



92 MEMORIALS OF 

easy. Feeling but little anxiety how my prospects might termi- 
nate, if my resignation to them and their inherent trials was all 
that was required, I gratefully accept the gracious design, and 
thankfully acknowledge its early completion. If I was wrong, 
being conscious of having no end in view, but the secret appro- 
bation of Truth, I trust that a future impartiality to myself will 
enable to discover where the error lay. If I was right, I am 
contented to rest my cause in that good hand, which by ways 
and means inscrutable to us, can effect its own unerring purposes. 
In short, when I had read thy letter, I considered the lilies, and 
remembered the gospel injunction — " Take no thought for the 
morrow," which the activity of self, and the perplexing inquisi- 
tiveness of my disposition, often, very often, prevent my com- 
pliance with. But I humbly crave the continuance of the pre- 
sent covering of my mind on this subject, and that you may 
simply proceed in your arduous journey in the pure openings of 
Truth upon your own minds, uninfluenced by any thing inferior 
thereto. For did you know to the full the feelings of my heart 
towards you, you would be completely convinced, as I trust you 
are in a good degree, that was it in my power I should dread to 
move a finger to bring about too early a separation of compan- 
ions united in the holy covenant, believing the command appli- 
cable to these — " Whom God hath joined, let no man (as man) 
put asunder." 

***** 

I hope thou wilt be instrumental in supporting the drooping 
spirits of our beloved C. Hustler, with whose hidden sorrows my 
mind has often been led hiddenly and deeply to sympathize. 

**=**# 

Various are the ingredients, wisely and evilly, cast into the 
cup of human life, and great is our natural antipathy to some 
of them. What is tolerable to one, is almost intolerable to 
another. So various are likewise our palates for interior food, 
and so hard to learn is that capital lesson " to endure all things," 
and quietly to depend upon the everlasting arm of power which 
changeth not, nor forsaketh the poorest of the fiock who trust in 



REBECCA JONES, 93 

his strength. Oh the need there is in this day often to repair tc 
the just balance, and when weighed, steadily to dwell as at thr' 
centre of the beam, lest we should be unprofitably tossed up and 
down by the sleight of men, and prevented of that quiet habita- 
tion divinely appointed for the refuge and sanctuary of the faith- 
ful in their tribulated pilgrimage. 

**# * *•* * * 

I marvel not, dear friend, from my small experience, at the 
often tried situation of thy mind. The Seed, if it be visited in 
many places, must be sought for in prison houses, in mangers 
and deserts, and sometimes lamented for in a language similar 
to Mary's—" They have taken away my Lord, and I know not 
where they have laid him." And when the deep exercise and 
travail of spirit of the faithful laborers are blessed with a degre-e 
of success, in how abject a state is the pure life found ! What 
need is there for such as minister to it, to be baptized into its 
sufferings, and content therewith as acceptably to clothe its 
nakedness, relieve its hunger, and visit its imprisoned state. 
Notwithstanding the impoverished situation of these, their deep 
self-abasement and fear respecting the uselessness of their ser- 
vices, yet undoubtedly they are held in everlasting remembrance, 
and, in the more triumphant state of the seed, we see even here, 
these are admitted to near access through the gracious invitation 

" Come ye blessed of my Father." 



_4{ 



I remember to have heard that S. Fothergill, in the last jour- 
ney he took, was often so exceedingly stripped and tried, par- 
ticularly after his public appearance, that the unity or approba- 
tion of the least child in the family would have revived him ; 
and this led him to acknowledge that he was never more weak 
and apt to doubt the rectitude of his ministry. Yet a friend of 
much religious worth and spiritual discerning, who was often 
with him, told me that it was never more pure and baptizing. 

But I am grieved with myself for writing thus to an old 
soldier, instructed in all the righteousness of both law and gos- 
pel. I had more need get to some Gamaliel and sit at their feet 
awhile, or, what would be still better, place myself as Mary 



94 MEMORIALS OF 

did, that by similar teaching I may be rightly instructed, and 
^enabled to keep my own standing, which appears to be in slip- 
'••ery places. 

I might say much to thee respecting the proved situation fre- 
quently portioned as my spiritual meat, which, though unpleasant 
to flesh and blood, is, nevertheless, when the mind is truly hum- 
bled, experienced to be substantial food ; and by these things 
our life is preserved, as, through subjection of soul, the sancti- 
fying power of Truth is not obstructed. When there is the 
least certain evidence that I am at all engaged in the good fight, 
and have not forsaken the faith, I am then encouraged to look 
with a degree of confidence to Divine Help for my future step- 
pings ■; and, in order to run so as to obtain, to endeavor to run 
with patience. 

We have not yet come to any conclusion respecting our future 
settlement. It is indeed by getting, deep enough that we can be 
rightly directed. 



Thomas Ross to R. J. 

Ballitore, 1st. mo. 25th 1785. 
Dear Rebecca, — Thou hast been of late brought up in my 
mind in great nearness of affection, in that love which distance 
doth n6t rase out ; so that I find a freedom to visit thee with a 
few lines, to inform thee that I have been favored to visit 
Friends' meetings generally through this nation, and have been 
enabled, by that good hand which I believe hath sent me forth 
to labor in his vineyard, to clear myself in warning the rebel- 
lious to return ; as also to encourage the youth to give up with- 
out reserve, that so they might come to fill up the seats of those 
worthies who are removed, and to be made useful in their day, 
to the promoting of the great cause on earth. Dear Rebecca, 
I think I know thou art a woman who travails in the deep, I 
travail with thee in my measure, for I think I may let thee know 
that I have been led along in a low way, and often baptized for 



REBECCA JONES. 95 

the dead, and yet have been preserved to cast my care upon 
him that can raise the dead. Dear R., thou hast been as 
an epistle written in my heart, and, in a fresh revival of the pre- 
cious unity which subsisted betwixt us when at home, I have a 
hope that if we keep to our first love, we shall come to know 
an increase, and that will be more than the increase of corn, 
wine, or oil. And now I may let thee know that I am as a 
hlank, but cannot see my way out of this nation. Yet I trust 
he who hath hitherto helped me, in his own time will open the 
way for me. Dear R. thou knows, and I know that unity 
which spreads over sea and land, a measure of which I have 
felt at times, that has brought not only thee, but all my brethren 
and sisters from America, fresh up in my mind, with strong de- 
sires that we might all be preserved little and low, and that we 
might be preserved chaste in our love to him who is the bride- 
groom of souls. Then he will take care of us, that we need not 
be anxious when we are going from one meeting to another, 
what we may have to say, but to keep to our gifts, and look to 
the Giver ; not to lean to our own understanding, for if we do, 
we shall greatly fail instead of bringing honor to his great 
name who hath called us forth, we shall bring death on our- 
selves, and not administer life to the people, for life answers 
life, as face answers face in a glass, and there is nothing that 
can draw to him, but what proceeds from him. The province- 
meeting is to be next Seventh day at Castle Dermot, which I 
propose to attend, after which I have ^ view of going to Moate, 
where our friend Jno. Pemberton is, to see him : he has been 
confined there some weeks with a cancerous wart on his hand, 
under the care of a man skillful in such cases. He is otherwise 
pretty well in health. Though he suffered considerable pain, 
he has been preserved in patience and resignation. Mehetabel 
Jenkins has had the small-pox at Samuel Neale's in Cork, and 
is finely recruited. I should have wrote before now, only I am 
such a poor scribe, but now have an opportunity of writing by 
a female hand (one who a little like thee, has a ready hand 
with her pen.) T salute thee in near affection, with desires that 



96 MEMORIALS OF 

thou mayst bear up in thy mind, remembering that he who is 
the great helper is said to have been a man of sorrows and ac- 
quainted with grief. My dear love to Rebecca Wright, Patience 
Brayton, Wm. Matthews, Saml. Emlen,'Geo. Dillwyn and in 
particular Nicholas Wain, Geo. Dillwyn's wife, and brother's 
family, John Elliot and family, Saml. Emlen, Jr., and all other 
enquiring friends. Richard Shackleton and family join in the 
above salutation, also to thy dear companion C. Hustler. 
Farewell, I remain thy brother in tribulation, 

Thomas Ross. 



R. Jones to John Pemberton. 

Appleby, [Westmorela7id,] 2d mo. 2d, 1785. 
Beloved friend, — Yesterday, on my dear companion C. H. 
and self coming to Penrith, (where this day sat their Monthly 
Meeting,) I received thy affectionate letter, dated the 14th of 
last month at Moate, by v/hich we were somewhat relieved from 
that anxiety and concern we have felt on account of thy dis- 
eased hand. It was cause of rejoicing to my poor mind, that I 
am still counted worthy of the near sympathy of the faithful 
servants in the heavenly family. Thy situation of mind is tru- 
ly a desirable one; for to be "preserved in a good degree of 
resignation in hope that divine help and favor will be contin- 
ued," is a distinguished favor from the Father of mercies. I 
have a letter from my H. C, who mentions thy brother James 
being on the recovery ; that Thomas Wharton, Samuel Rhoads. 
A. Pemberton's son Israel, and Martha Noble, are released from 
the troubles of this life ; that our other friends are pretty well, 
except Samuel Noble, who has had another stroke of the palsy, 
by which he is quite speechless, but sensible, and in a sweet 
frame of mind. I am rejoiced to hear of dear M. Jenkins's re- 
covery. She is an innocent, humble handmaid. I am able 
still to please thee with the tidings of my dear C. Hustler con- 
tinuing with me, and hope I shall yet be indulged with her mo- 



REBECCA JONES. 97 

Iherly assistance, if in the LorcVs ivill. I expect Wm. Mat- 
thews is now in London ; he often, while we were together, ex- 
pressed his deep sympathy with thee, as do many other dear 
Friends. R. Wright and companion, got well out of Scotland, 
and are under the Master's direction and help. They, with N. 
Wain, W. Matthews, and myself, were at Leeds Quarterly 
Meeting, and mutually comforted in the fresh sense of true unity. 
It was a large, favored meeting. I rejoice in thy account of 
dear T. Ross, and hope that he will be kept by the power of 
God unto the end. Perhaps he may find his mind engaged to 
bear up thy hand, which, if he should, will, I have no doubt, be 
acceptable to thee. I had not been able for some time to find 
out where dear P. Brayton was, but I find, by a few lines from 
George Dillwyn, (since the date of thine,) that she has gone to- 
wards Bristol and Wales. George Dillwyn and S. Emlen, 
have been usefully engaged in visiting families in London. The 
first seemed low, but in the quiet. 

My dear friend may find from my frequent epistles, that thou 
art often in my remembrance, and however poor and weak I see 
myself, yet I am nearly united in spirit to my fellow laborers, 
who are more strongly qualified for useful, lively service in the 
family, I would have thee give my love to such friends thou 
mayest fall in with, who may enquire after the weakest of the 
flock now abroad on Truth's service. Don't forget me, for I am 
at times so amazed and fearful, that but for the renewed con- 
firming evidence that did attend my own mind, and the minds of 
my dear brethren and sisters, before I left the American shore, 
being at times livingly renewed, I should indeed faint by the 
way. The greatness of the work, and the insufiiciency of my 
feeble endeavors towards its furtherance, are to my mind very 
humbling and awful ; yet I am at times enabled to say, by a 
degree of comfortable experience, the Lord is good, and worthy 
to be feared, served and obeyed, in his own way, and accord- 
ing to his appointment. * # * » 



98 MEMORIALS OF 

James Pemberton to R. Jones. 

Philadelphia, 23d of 2d mo., 1785. 
Dear friend, — Notwithstanding my silence, I may venture to 
class myself with the foremost of thy friends here for remem- 
brance of thee, believing no day has passed since thy departure, 
and thou unthought of by me with sincere desires, however fee- 
ble, for thy preservation, and that fortitude and strength may be 
thy experience in each day's service appointed ; and " lo, I am 
with you always," is an unfailing promise fi-om all-sufficient, 
wisdom, not intended only for those to whom it was immediate- 
ly spoken, but all others of his devoted servants. It has been 
an occasion of thankful gladness, that thou art furnished with a 
companion in whom I am persuaded thou hast found the benefit 
of " an harmonious laborer for Truth's honor," as we have often 
heard queried. She was amiable in my view in her youth at 
Friend Weston's, and being since dignified with a commission 
from the highest authority, for publishing the glad tidings of 
Peace, I think myself authorized by the precept of an eminent 
minister, to hold her in double esteem for the work's sake. 

I expect thy beloved H. C. gives thee a minute relation of oc- 
currences among us as they fall out, so that were I to particularize, 
it might be a repetition only ; nor can I convey thee a comforta- 
ble account of the state of society beings advanced for the bet- 
ter since thy leaving. The spirit of the world, in its allure- 
ments to trade and commerce, has captivated too man}', to the 
hindrance of their spiritual progress, and to the manifest injury 
of some in their temporal concerns ; yet there remain a number 
engaged for the general welfare. Our meetings are greatly in- 
creased in nurhber by the removal of many from the country, 
without addition to our real best strengrth. The evenincr meet- 
ings of First day continue to be often crowded, and much at- 
tended by other professors ; the labor in them rests for the most 
part upon W. Savery, Jr., and Daniel Offiey. Daniel Burns 



REBECCA JONES. 99 

has lately become a citizen in the southern district, and takes 
his share with them. Thy Hannah is mostly a silent hearer, 
yet now and then, chiefly on Fifth days, gives proof of the validi- 
ty of her call to the sacred office and improvement therein. 

Sarah Harrison, Jas. Simpson, (from Bucks,) accompanied by 
I. Zane and M. England, are now employed in visiting families 
within our district. * * * * 

Thy account of thy visit to Ackworth, is very agreeable. 
Whilst that school is maintained on its original intention, I ex- 
pect it will prove of great use; but it too frequently has hap- 
pened that good institutions have been perverted, which, I hope, 
will not be the case in that, and the judicious guard it is placed 
under, will be its preservation. * * * 

With cordial love, thy affectionate friend, J. P. 

On the 21st of Second month, she reached the hospitable 
abode of J, and C. Hustler, Undercliff, near Bradford, from 
whence she visited the families at Bradford, which service occu- 
pied her till the 20th of the next month. 

A letter from S. Grubb to R. J., dated Third month 18th, 
contains, among much that is replete with instruction, the fol- 
lowing paragraph, which, though not necessary to our narra- 
tive, appears so calculated to be of substantial benefit to some 
readers, that we fear to omit it. " There is so little in me that 
is comfortable, much less desirable even to myself, that I am 
ready to 'say to corruption, thou art my father, to the worm, 
thou art my mother and sister;' and were it not for the break- 
ings in of immortality in the depth of this abasedness, which 
(though soon taken up again,) leaves a renewal of strength be- 
hind it, how abject would my state be ! Were there not some- 
thing which no outward gratification can satisfy, my husband 
and my situation in most respects might soon fix my mind in a 
sort of earthly paradise, and centre my enjoj^ments in what the 
world calls good, and what, under the blessing which makes 
truly rich, is really so. Thy kindness and my feelings have 



100 MEMORIALS OF 

urged me to write ; an employment /rom which I am often led, 
believing that if it is my lot, to make a safe progress, I must learn 
more and more to salute but few by the way. There is an airy, 
unconverted mind, very prevalent among the professors ot 
Truth, and may it not sorrowfully be said amongst some of the 
fore rank of the people ; which is naturally seeking^ to attract us 
from the Rock of our strength, and though it is attended with a 
specious appearance of loving the Truth, and a readiness to say, 
' blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord,' (and there 
is something in me that loves to be courteous to these, rather 
than abide in the cross,) yet in those humbling abasing seasons 
wherein no human consolation can avail, except what is felt in 
the deep utterance of united spiritual exercise, I find not such 
to he my fellov: -helpers in the Lord ; and I have clearly discov- 
ered, that to support an unrequired famiharity with them, is to 
be in great danger of hurting myself, and if it should be grate- 
ful to any such, will rather strengthen their contentment in their 
present state, than turn them from the sandy to the true founda- 
tion. Thus, my dear friend, has a line sometimes opened to 
the view of my mind, which being opposite to my natural dis- 
position, brings with it its trials, a daily call for circumspection, 
and a daily condemnation for want of it, and a willingness to 
tread, according to my measure, the suffering path of the great 
and holy Pattern, who, though he ate with publicans and sin- 
ners when salvation was sent to their houses, yet in no wise 
countenanced or approved those who boasted of being Abra- 
ham's children, but were under the power of the seducer. * 
* * To be sensible of our own infirmities, and therefore to 
be chaste to the Bridegroom of souls, when he is pleased to 
withdraw the sensible enjoyment of help, and discoveries of his 
putting forth, is a desirable situation for the mind to centre in, as 
it preserves us from joining with those spirits and things, 
either in ourselves or others, which we have once seen to bo 
in the degeneracy from the pure life; and enables to possess 
the vessel in sanctification and honor." 

R. J. arrived in London the 10th of Fifth month, takinir her 



REBECCA JONES. 101 

abode at Plough Court, (a locality familiar to the readers of W. 
Allen's life,) and remained in and near that metropolis til) Sixth 
month 3d. During this time she experienced various interests 
and exercises. Meanwhile, she had parted with Christiana 
Hustler, her true yoke fellow, in whose absence she " felt like 
a lonely dove without its mate ;." and she says, in a note to her 
about this time, " a living hope springs up just now, that as 
thou wast the first, so thou wilt be the last companion in this 
land ;" a hope which, as will hereafter be seen, was literally 
realized. 

The following note to John Pemberton, written in London 
some time in this month, might excite a desire to know some- 
thing respecting its result, but we cannot doubt that such a band 
of disciples, reverently meeting together in the name of the 
Lord, would experience Him to be in the midst of them, reali- 
zing his ancient promises. 

Beloved friend^ — My mind has been thoughtful this morning 
on my own account, and feeling much love and sympathy with 
my fellow-laborers from our land, I was willing to propose, if it 
meet thy approbation, with the rest, that we might all meet at 
some suitable time and place, and sit down quietly together, 
not knowing what may arise for our mutual confirmation and 
benefit. 

1 am thy poor, tried friend, 

6th day morning, nine o'clock 



^^-^ 



Whether there was a connection between the above note, and 
the meeting referred to as follows, in a letter to C. Hustler, it is 
not easy to determine, though it was probably not the case. 

" My soul salutes thee under the precious uniting sense of the 
love of our heavenly Father, which so abundantly flows towards 
thee, that words would fail me in attempting to convey my feel- 
ings. The salutation which I am now about handing to thyself, 
can be done in no other language, if I am honest, than to say, 
I love thee as my own soul. Remember what I have often re- 

9* 



102 MEMORIALS OF 

minded thee of — ' Having loved his own, he loved them unto 
the end,' and as he is humbly confided in, and depended upon 
by these, he hath determined * none shall be able to pluck them 
out of His hand.' On Seventh day, (Fifth month, 28th,) 
we all dined at Samuel Hoare's, at Newington, that is to say„ 
all our little band of seven that came over sea together, — was 
it not worthy of thankful commemoration ? Without adverting 
to the circumstance till we all got there, we found it was just 
one year to a day, nay about the same hour of the day, that 
we landed at Gravesend. Our Hearts were sweetly melted to- 
gether when I mentioned it ; we were made thankfully to 
acknowledge that we had ' lacked nothing^ and we could 
unitedly set up our Ebenezer." 

Referring in her diary to this gathering, she says — " we had 
to offer humble thanks for the Lord's mercies, since that time 
many ways extended." 



R. J. TO Sarah Hustler. 

London^ bth mo. 20ih, 1785. 
Dear Sara.h Hustler, — Thy dear mother, my precious 
companion, being gone to meeting, and I not quite well in my 
chamber, having thee with the rest of her beloved offspring often 
in my near remembrance, it seems as if I may telf thee, if thou 
art willing to be instructed by the divine Monitor within, which 
is the only true teacher, there will be little occasion for any of 
the Lord's servants, either to be grieved with any thing in or 
upon thee, or to fear thy coming forward answerable to the 
merciful intention of infinite goodness towards thee; who having 
drawn thy worthy mother out of the vanities of this world, call- 
ed her by His grace, and established her among his humble 
children, and engaged her mind on thy account ; will bring thee 
also into the same comfortable experience in thyself; why then 
should any little matter, things that thy own good sense and 
better judgment allow to be tery little things, impede thy ad- 



REBECCA JONES. 103 

vancement towards an establishment in the Lord's favor ? Is 
there any thing too great or too valuable to be parted with for 
the sake of that unshaken peace, which all these outward things 
united cannot furnish ? Be obedient, then, ray dear ; give up 
every thing, however pleasing, when the divine requisition is, 
" give wp^^ that so thou mayest be enabled to step forward in 
beauty and strength, when the further call is heard — " Keep not 
backP O my heart is and has often been exercised on thy ac- 
count, and on account of thy dear brother William, lest for 
want of an early conformity to divine manifestation, you should 
go wider and wider into the paths of defection ; and in so doing 
render yourselves unworthy of a place in that succession which 
will be filled up in the Lord's family, whether they who are first 
indulged with the heavenly offer are willing or not ; for he has 
determined that " his table shall be filled," and many from the 
highways and hedges are already brought in to sit down amongst 
his faithful children, delighting in the lifting up of his glorious 
countenance, rendering him the acceptable fruits of obedience 
and love in their season. And dear children, I am persuaded 
this is the season, the blessed season, for you to begin, by bow- 
ing under, the cross of Christ, conforming to its humbling, re- 
straining effects and with a noble and righteous firmness, dis- 
daining to be brought under the power of the foolish customs 
and fashions of this degenerate and deluded age ; for if you 
honor the Lord in heart and conduct, you will not only rise 
superior to them all, but, what is infinitely better, will be honor- 
ed by Him, who hath promised to do it for such. 

And as dear William is more in the way of temptation in 
divers respects, being often in an exposed situation, arising from 
the necessary business in which he is engaged, I wish him to be 
on his watch, and not give way to the subtile whisperings of the 
adversary, who may attempt to persuade him, that to keep in a 
plain, humble appearance, is unmanly, and that the road to pre- 
ferment, riches and honor, is pleasant, and may be safely pur- 
sued in the time of youth. But that by an inward attention to 
the inspeaking voice of divine wisdom, he may understand its 



104 MEMORIALS OF 

intelligent indisputable language — " By humility and the fear of 
the Lord, are riches, honor, and life," and wisely prefer it. 
Thus, dear children, is my heart concerned for you — receive it 
as the fruit of love — feeling you near as if you were my kins- 
folk according to the flesh ; yea more near than some of these ; 
and under this concern I do entreat you, " Be wise for your- 
selves," remembering that " the wise sjiall inherit true glory, 
when shame shall be the promotion of fools ;" hereby you will 
be good examples to the younger children, beloved by those who 
love what is only lovely, and " Make glad your father, and give 
your mother joy." 

R. Jones having written to S. Grubb, proposing that they 
should be associated in a visit to Ireland, S. G. being at the time 
from home on religious service, writes on the 31st of Fifth month, 
and, after expressing her apprehension that she should be most 
easy to lay the subject before her friends on her return, adds — 
" It has ever been a great trial to me to avow a concern to any 
religious service, and to act in obedience thereto most humiliating. 
I seldom attempt it as long as a stone is left unturned, in en- 
deavoring to put it by, so that I hope my dear friend will have a 
little compassion on my doubts and hesitations ; for the more I 
see myself, the greater need I find that all my prospects and 
feelings should be weighed in the just balance of the sanctuary, 
time after time, to prove whether they increase or decrease in 
pure strength. I feel near sympathy with thee, my beloved 
friend, especially in parting with a humble-minded sympathetic 
companion, whose trial and loss, will, I trust, with thine, be re- 
paired by the Comforter from the Father." 

S. Grubb in allusion to the desolating effects of unfaithfulness 
among some among whom her lot was at this time cast, says — 
" May I ever remember, in prospects so distressing, the instruct- 
ive conduct of the archangel, who brought no railing acqusation, 
but wisely left the work to that Hand which can do all things, 
with or without us." 



REBECCA JONES. 105 

CHAPTER V. 

1785—1788. 

Gives up for Ireland— Various letters — Lands at Dublin where she 
visits families — Message from Captain Truxton — Family visits, at 
at Ballitore and Catleds. Remarkable anecdote of Geo. Dillwyn — 
S. Grubb arrives — Visits families at Lisburn — Completes her labors 
in Ireland and returns to England — Sickness, death and funeral of 
Thomas Ross — Labors in Wales — Family visit at York and at Leeds 
— Certificate of Ireland Half Year's Meeting — Attends London Yearly 
Meeting — W. Mathews' testimony of the growth in her gift — ^Illness 
of C. Hustler and of S. Grubb — Visits families at Sheffield, Warns- 
worth, and High Wycombe — H. Cathrall's integrity in returning 50/. 
— Certificate of London Yearly Meeting — Concern on account of 
Africans — Attends London Yearly Meeting — Preparations to embark 
Parting scenes — Tabular notes. 

Her proposed mission to Ireland, closing from her view, R. 
J. made preparation for going into Sussex, and she esteemed it 
a favor that her friend, Deborah Townsend, obtained on the 31st 
the consent of Peel Monthly Meeting, to accompany her. Sixth 
month 2d, she makes this brief note — " At Plough Court, in 
great distress, gave up for Ireland." And on the morning of 
the 3d, she writes, that after a night of deep distress, this pros- 
pect so clearly opened, and every thing else so closed up, that 
her full resignation became absolutely necessary. " I have, 
therefore," she says, " yielded to it, as the path for me to pursue, 
in order to obtain that peace which no substitute, no contrivance 
of the creature, no human exertion can procure, because it is 
reserved for obedience only. The great lesson of self abase- 
ment and mortification has been singularly renewed to me, from 
which, through the Divine blessing, I hope to derive lasting in- 
struction and benefit." On the same day she writes to C. Hust- 
ler — " Pray for me, that I may not be left to run at uncertainty, 
for I am likely to be led in paths that I have not known. I 
should be glad thou wouldst encourage dear S. Grubb to move 
forward. Her Robert, I expect, will accompany her over the 
water. Let her know that my heart is nearly united to her. I 
now feel, in this sudden movement, the force of the expression 



106 MEMORIALS OF 

— " Ye are not your own." But if I may in any sort be ac- 
knowledged by Him, it matters not, whether or not 1 am owned 
by Abraham's descendants, or acknowledged by the nominal life- 
less professors of Israel ; those who are not doing the works of 
Abraham nor of the wrestling seed. Feeling thee in the precious 
heavenly fellowship to be of the seed, I freely open my heart to 
thee ; thou knowest I love thee, and wish thee all " joy and peace 
in believing," that thou art one of the tried chosen number who 
will not be forsaken by Him wnto the end, and in whom he will 
yet show forth his praise. Lift up thy head in hope, and trust 
in Him who is able to help thee over and through all — yea. He 
will do it." 

On the 4th of Sixth month, with her " face turned toward the 
land she had feared, and without any certainty of a companion," 
she took her departure for Liverpool, where, on the 13th they 
embarked on board the Earl of Charlemont packet for Dublin, 
and landed at Rogerson's quay. Here, on the 20th, they com- 
menced a family visit, which was completed on the 14th of 
Seventh month, comprising "in all 115 sittings, in which, 
though deeply exercising, at times Truth prevailed, and we en- 
joyed peace, and only and refused a visit from us. 

" I have been," she says, " without a woman friend, except 
Sarah Dillwyn, who just went to keep me in countenance ; 
yet the Lord hath been my helper, and I have abundant cause 
to bless his name, and to rejoice (however strange it may appear 
to some) that I came when I did. I have been a feeling witness 
of his great mercy, and love manifested towards this people ; 
they received us joyfully ; and though we have been exercised 
in much plain dealing, yet the influence of best love has been 
felt ; and though all are not alike sensible, yet many feeling 
minds, have, I trust, been encouraged and quickened in right 
prospects. I never knew S. Emlen more favored." 

A letter from Capt. Truxton to Samuel Emlen, received at this 
lime, says — 

''Present my best compliments to Rebecca Jones, and to that worthy 
old favorite of mine, Thomas Ross. May God of his infinite miercy; 



KEBECCA JONES. 107 

and goodness, continue his blessing towards you all; and after you 
are satisfied in your own minds that you have done your duty towards 
Him and towards your brethrea.in this eastern world, that He may be 
pleased to conduct you to your families, relations and friends in safety, 
is my sincere wish and prayer." 

The following lines addressed to her by S. Grubb, and dated 
Seventh month 1st, have reference to the engagement just noticed : 
" My mind sympathises vv^ith thee and thy companions in your 
exercising engagement. It is a work in which, comparatively 
speaking, the weather changes many times in the day. Some- 
times the clouds hang so low as even to baptize the inhabitants 
of that climate in them, from whence there is so blessed a con- 
nection with the great ocean of wisdom and strength, as to ex- 
tend the baptism thereto. Here we find our spiritual Moses, 
through whose Almighty power the clouds break, the earth is 
refreshed with celestial rain, and the Sun of righteousness breaks 
forth. Then they who delight in his precious influence revive in 
vigor and press forward with new alacrity of soul. Thus may 
your spirits be supported to persevere in the Lord's work, and to 
do valiantly in restoring the ancient path of purity, simplicity 
and dedication of heart." 



R. J. TO James Pemberton.. 

Dublin, Qth mo. 29th, 1785. 
Esteemed Friend, — Thy truly acceptable salutations of the 
23d of Second month, and 13th of last month, came duly ; the 
first received at London, the other yesterday, and both were oc- 
casions of comfort and encouragement to my drooping mind ; 
having had many conflicts and exercises, through all which the 
Lord has been merciful beyond what I have even dared to ex- 
pect, and among other favors received, having had the wing of 
a valuable, experienced mother cast over me, in my beloved fel- 
low laborer, C. Hustler, is not one of the least. We have in 
many depths (few heights) with increasing love and truest unity 
been exercised together for the space of twelve months, and 
found it a close trial to separate at London the week aftf*'- the 



108 MEMORIALS OF 

England,) I view it as an additional provision by kind Provi- 
dence, which renews the obligation on me, to be still nnore hum- 
ble and devoted in his service. I thought it was rather confirm- 
ing to my mind that thou shouldst even think of my coming into 
this nation, which I did not give up to without great fear and 
much exercise of mind. I left London the 4th instant, and took 
a few meetings in the way, in company with my dear friends S. 
Emlen and son, G. Dillwyn and wife ; got to Liverpool the 11th, 
and on the 13th in the packet, -(a brig,) from thence crossed the 
water hither, landing the 16th, not without sea sickness, as 
usual, but resigned and quiet in mind. 

And now I am engaged (till my companion comes) in going 
with G. D. and S. E., from family to family in this city ; but 
whether Samuel will make a thorough visit of the kind, is not 
known ; G. D. will hardly, and I hope soon to be released ; but 
thou knowest S. E. is much led in this 'line, and is peculiarly 
gifted for it. He is at times weak and discouraged ; but on the 
whole I do not think him in a much more enfeebled state than 
when in Philadelphia. 

****** 

It was cause of great joy to meet thy dear brother John at 
London, and the more so to find him so easy and cheerful in 
spirit, as well as that he appears improved every way, except 
that he is and does look older. Whether he will cross from 
Scotland, whither he has gone with Father Ross, (as Captain 
Truxton used to call him,) into this nation again, is a matter, I 
believe, not fully settled in his own mind. But I trust he will 
be wisely and safely directed. 

I note thy brotherly desire on my account with thankfulness 
to Him who is so rich in mercy, and boundless in compassion 
slill, that he is pleased to require no mighty works at my feeble 
hands, so that he should condescend to accept my little labors 
of love in his cause, is humblingly marvellous in my eyes, and 
must be so to others in whose hearts a place has been found for 
so poor a creature. * * * * 

Thou wilt doubtless hear from difi^erent hands hov/ and where 



REBECCA JONES. 109 

of love in his cause, is humblingly marvellous in my eyes, and 
must be so to others in whose hearts a place has been found for 
so poor a creature. * * * 

Thou wilt doubtless hear from different hands how and where 
our American friends are. I can only say, I believe they are 
all well; and I trust in the Master's appointment ; as well as that 
they are much in the acceptance of Friends where they travel. 
I may inform thee there is a large body of Friends in this city. 
Their meeting, when fully gathered, is in number, I think, equal 
to ours at the Bank, and no ministering Friend belonging to it 
but one woman Friend, who has a small testimony. Many of 
them appear hopeful, especially among the younger and middle 
rank. My landlord and his wife, Joseph and Jane Williams, 
are steady, valuable Friends. 

Please give my love to thy wife and children, to H. Pember- 
ton, (bid her be still resigned and patient on dear John's account ; 
he is in good hands and prosperous,) to thy kinsfolk, * * 
and to other dear friends in thy freedom. 'Tis cause of humble 
thankfulness that I still maintain a place in the minds of my 
dear friends at home. May their prayers with mine ascend, for 
renewed help and preservation. 

7^ ^ ^ 'P Ti^ ^ 

Thy brother John has left a sweet savor behind him in this 
land, and so have all the other Friends who have been here ; 
and oh that I may be kept from doing any harm, for I do very 
little good, except 'tis secretly, yet I don't murmur, but am con- 
tent. Thy account of dear W. Savery and D. Offley, is com- 
fortable. May they be preserved through all. My love to them. 
Tell D. O. his letter came safe, and was acceptable. I should like 
to hear from my friends often, but I feel my own unworthiness, 
and knowing that others must know it, T forbear asking. 

And now, desiring that I may not be forgotten, in this dark 
corner, by those who have my welfare and the welfare of the 
great and good cause at heart, which is increasingly dear to me, 
though a feeble servant, who can do little, very little, for its ad- 
vancement, I conclude, and remain thy affectionate friend. 

10 



110 MEMORIALS OF 



To H. Drinker and wife, and M. Sandwith 

Dublin, 6th mo. SOth, 1785 
Much esteemed Friends and old kind neighbors, H. D, and 
wife, and M. Sandwith, — I don't forget my former acquaint- 
ance, but often, (among many others) think of you and yours 
with continued desires for your preservation, every way, that as 
you with me have been made exp.erimental witnesses of the care 
and kindness of our merciful Creator, many ways vouchsafed, 
we may neither distrust his continued mercy, nor withhold from 
him his due, even the surrender of ourselves and all with which 
he has blessed us, into his holy hand, suffering him to have his 
own way and work in and upon us in time, and finally lay down 
our heads in peace, in a happy and joyous eternity. 

H. D.'s few lines of Third month 12th, accompanying G. 
Churchman's, were truly acceptable, and more than I expected, 
considering how many are his engagements, which, I under- 
stand, are not lessened., Should a suitable opportunity offer, I 
should like my dear love given to A. James and his precious 
wife and their children — I have sympathized with them all — to 
your connexions — to your kinsfolk the Jarvises, neighbors 
Wains, Hartshornes, Howells, and to other dear friends in your 
freedom. 

Dear S. Emlen and son, G. D. and wife, with myself, left 
London the 4th inst., embarked from Liverpool the 13th, and 
landed here the 16th. S. E., whose service is great in families, 
with G. D., found their way opened to a visit in that line here, 
and, as a feeble link in the chain, I have been united with them. 
We have been engaged about ten days, and there being as large 
a number as I think there is in our Bank Meeting, the weather 
very trying in this crowded city, and some of the band weakly, 
we dont take above six in a day, so that if the whole is gone 
through, it will take me at least three weeks more to complete 
it. But S. E. often talks of going back to England, and taking 
ship from thence home, which, I apprehend, he will in a short 



REBECCA JONES. m 

time. He is, as usual, often poorly and discouraged ; at other 
times better and cheerful, but strong in his Master's service, 
and is, with G. Dillwyn, greatly owned therein. Indeed, it 

seems a day of precious visitation to Friends here. 

* * * * * * 

Our friends from America are, I believe, all well in different 
parts of England, and dear J. Pemberton has left an open door 
in the minds of Friends and others here ; so have the other 
Friends who have visited this nation. May their honest labors 

be blest ! 

****** 

''Seventh month 25th, 1785.— R, S. and wife, G. D. and 
myself, engaged in a family visit to friends at Ballitore, and 
Catleds. Began at Abraham Shackleton's school, amongsl 
about fifty boys, mostly not members of our Society. This was 
a time of great favor." 

During this visit, which, by a subsequent note, we learn, con- 
sisted of sixteen different sittings, R. J. was introduced into 
much discouragement. Her friend S. Grubb having arranged 
to meet her at Dublin, found herself detained to attend the 
Monthly Meeting at Warrington, and a meeting at Liverpool. 
She at length embarked in the Havre packet, and had a tedious 
and distressing voyage. Being compelled to put in at the Isle 
of Man, she was detained there two nights; their provisions 
were entirely exhausted. Rebecca had received letters add ress,ed 
to Sarah since her embarcation, and also tidings that she had 
actually sailed. Hence she was in great distress of mind, and 
brought very low; ready to conclude that if through her means 
so dignified an instrument should have been lost to the church, 
she must be under a delusion, and her mission a mistaken one. 
On their way from Richard Shackleton's, (accompanied by his 
wife,) to visit some friends in the country, R. J. was riding in 
much mental depression. George Dillwyn being on horseback, 
rode up to the side of the carriage and said — "Be comforted, 
Rebecca, Sarah is safe on terra firma." When they had 
reached the house to which they were bound, R. J. found a 



112 MEMORIALS OF 

Bible in the window, and opening it, her eyes rested on 1 Kings 
xvii. 24. She said — " George, art thou willing to be tried by 
this ?" He replied, after a solemn pause, " I am !" and she read 
aloud — " Now by this I know that thou art a man of God, and 
that the word of the Lord in thy mouth is truth." It had been 
their design to remain that night in the country, but in conse- 
quence of G. D.'s firm impression, they returned toward Balli- 
tore. Whilst they were on their way, in the dark of evening, 
they met an Irish car, bringing S. G., who having landed, was 
hastening to join them. 

S. Grubb says — 

"In a few days we set forward together, viz, : G. D., K. Jones, and 
myself; our prospectus comfortably corresponding one with another, 
we cheerfully concurred therewith to travel in company." On the 4th 
of Eighth month, returning to their lodgings after a little mission to 
Christians Town, they had a solemn sitting with the family from whom 
they were about to part, on which occasion R. J. was enabled (as S. 
Grubb expresses) " in awful supplication to breathe for continued sur- 
port, and preservation in the path of obedience, which," she adds, 
'' comfortably contented our spirits together." 

Next day they set forward, leaving Sarah Dillwyn at Richard 
Shackleton's. 

On the 1st of Eighth Month, she writes from Baltimore 
to Joseph Williams, who was her kind host at Dublin, 

" I am yet a very poor creature, but hope to be content, and 
to feel the reward of peace in reviewing my labours in your city. 
May the professors of truth in that place be favored so to sub- 
mit to the diyine visitation, that the scales will fall from their 
eyes, and they see for themselves the necessity there is for many 
to come away ' from Lebanon, from the top of Amana, from 
Shenir and Hermon, from the mountains of the Leopards, and 
from the Lion's den ;' that so our Heavenly Father may delight 
to dwell among them, even as He did among their forefathers, 
as they come into the experience of the fulfilling of his gracious 
declaration, — 'This people have I formed for myself; they shall 
show forth my praise." 



REBECCA JONES. 113 



a. J. TO C. H. 



Grange^ near Charlmont, Sth mo. IS^/t, 1785. 

Dearly Beloved Friend, — So it is, whether we have any- 
thing worth communicating or not, when we are brought near 
to them we love, and feel in the precious covenant of life and 
heavenly fellowship, we cannot forbear saluting each other ; and 
this is so much my case, that I am obliged to take up the cross 
to the disposition I ^QeX, or should run thee to much unprofitable 
expense. I wrote thee from Ballitore ; since then we (that is, 
G. D., my companion, and self,) have taken the meetings at 
Rathangan, Timahoe, Edenderry, Old Castle, Coothill, and 
Castleshane ; to the four last, the inhabitants had an invitation 
on G. D.'s concern, and they were held, I hope, to some profit, 
the people behaving well ; and Friends being desired, at the 
breaking up, to keep their seats, afforded me an opportunity for 
some relief. We had a very large satisfactory opportunity at a 
newly settled town called Prosperous,, a few miles from Tima- 
hoe, (no Friends residing there,) which was held in the chamber 
of a large unfinished building. 

Came to Joseph Nicholson's last evening, feeling our minds 
more inclined hither than to Dungamson, and are comforted in 
the company of his grandfather, J. Morton, who, though labor- 
ing under an asthma, is " an Israelite indeed." Several young 
people here appear hopeful ; after to-morrow we may move 
toward Tobberhead. We have had rainy weather mostly since 
leaving Ballitore, so that I am more reconciled to the old post 
chaise, which G. D. and S. E. strongly urged my accepting. 
My limbs are better : but I am still a very poor affair, and dont 
know what will become of me in this journey ; for I feel very 
little more than resignation ; and that, methinks, I hear thee say 
is a favor ; I join thee ; because, whether I live through it or 
not, it keeps me quiet, so that I dont look far before me, but 
just live from day to day, and that more by faith than by sight. 
And in some of these, my baptized moments, thou art brought 

10* 



114 MEMORIALS OF 

so preciously near to my soul, that the enjoyment of the unity 
of thy spirit, is indeed a brook by the way, wherewith I am re- 
freshed and encouraged still to trust in that good hand who has 
thus inclined thy heart towards a younger tried sister ; and who 
will, I do believe, suffer thee and me to be tried no further than 
He will enable us to bear up under, if we retain our confidence 
in him to the end ; cast, therefore, my dear friend, thy care 
upon him, for he careth for his depending children ; and 
though, in his unsearchable wisdom. He feeds with the bread 
of affliction, and' dispenses the waters of bitterness, oh, they are 
measured in the hollow of his holy hand, and in that unerring 
wisdom are given us, for the more full effecting of His inscruta- 
ble designs, and our perfect sanctification thereby. I know not 
why thou shouldst be so constantly present with me ; I some- 
times think and believe thou art in near sympathy with my tried 
situation ; at other times, that, perhaps, we are again to be 
united in service ; and again, if thou shouldst have thy commis- 
sion extended to America, and we in the Master's appointment, 
cross the great Atlantic together, it would be cause of humble 
rejoicing to more than myself; but let the cause be what it may, 
or ever so latent, the sensation is so sweetly comfortable ! 'tis as 
a seal upon my spirit, that thou art under the special notice and 
regard of the heavenly Shepherd, whose voice is sweet, and 
countenance comely as ever, and will " put His own forth, go 
before them, and give unto them eternal life ; and none shall be 
able to pluck them out of his holy land," nor any thing past, 
present, or to come, separate them from his love and favor ! 

I have letters from home as late as 20th of 6th month. All 
well. They have not yet heard that " my mistress is taken 
from my head." When they do, they will bemoan me, as I do 
my own situation, yet am thankful for dear S. Grubb's com- 
pany, who is a valuable, steady, kind friend, and has been much 
favored in her service. I love her, and wish she may receive 
no damage through me. * * * 

Now to Him that is able to keep us through all that may be 
permitted to attend, and to present us faultless before the throne 



REBECCA JONES. 115 

of His glory with exceeding joy, I commit and commend thee, 
with my own soul, and remain with undiminished love and 
well-wishing, thy poor fellow pilgrim. 




On the 25th of 8th month, our friends attended the Monthly 
Meeting at Lisburn. S. Grubb says, " My dear companions 
were silently baptized under a concern to visit the families of 
Friends in that place, though the time did not appear to be then 
come." After visiting various other places, they returned to 
Lisburn, and, 9th month 2d, commenced the visit which occu- 
pied about a week ; " the Minister of ministers being near," as 
S. G. remarks, " to hand forth in the needful time (often after 
long suffering silence,) suitable instruction and consolation to the 
visited." Shortly after this they found peace in the performance 
of a family visit at Timahoe. Having been very generally 
through the meetings in Ulster, they had several very large and 
satisfactory meetings at different places among other professors 
there and on the way, particularly Ballinacree, Ballymena, 
Charlemont, Rathforland, Prosperous, Rathangan, Edenderry, 
and Tullamore. Referring to these places, she writes to John 
Pemberton — " An opening is made for us through thy dedica- 
tion, and many, both Friends and others, remember thee with 
love and esteem." At Moate they met with Zachariah Dicks, from 
North Carolina. " I expected," says, R. J., " G. D. and he 
would have united, but when companions are rightly yoked, 
great care should be exercised, lest a separation do harm ; and 
though I stood freely resigned to the thought of our being left, 
two poor females, to struggle alone, yet George did not see his 
way clearly to join Z. D., and we parted from him in love and 
tenderness.* After a week spent in Dublin, under great dis- 
couragement, she writes from Limerick, 10th month 10th, to 
John Pemberton — " I need not tell thee how low the state of 
things is in this land. The scarcity of living ministers fully 
evinces it, as well as the deep feeling sense which has attended 

*G. D. continued with them through their visits in Ireland. 



116 MEMORIALS OF 

our minds ; yet there is room to hope that some young people 
will, if not turned aside by the many stumbling blocks, be 
brought forward in the Lord's time. I feel for thee, dear John, 
in the tried exercising path in which thou art led, but as often 
as I look towards thee, the passage occurs — ' He that soweth 
plenteously shall reap abundance;' and I trust the sweet enrich- 
ing crop of divine peace will be thine at last. But as for me, I 
need the prayers of my friends, for I am of no service only that 
I am daily led in the way of the cross, and wish to be obedient, 
but have little strength. I am humbled with the kindness of 
friends to so nothing a creature !" 

Her services in Ireland were extensive, and from the testi- 
mony of her companion and others, it is evident that she gave 
full proof of her ministry, and was in numerous instances made 
helpful to her fellow probationers. Having taken at Dublin 
their passage in a coUier, bound to Whitehaven, they were de- 
tained by contrary winds. S. G. says, " We found it safe to 
look around us, that if any little service was omitted if might 
then be performed. * * * Standing in the resignation, and 
not being detained of ourselves, divers opportunities for public 
and private labour unexpectedly opened, generally tending to 
invite the ignorant, and to encourage the sincere and drooping 
minds, to a faith in the sufficiency of the gift of God in them- 
selves, for the sanctification of the soul, and the necessary sup- 
ply of every spiritual enjoyment, and quahfication acceptably to 
worship, which must now, as formerly, be sought for in the 
beauty of holiness and in newness of life. We staid over 
another First day, when my companions G. D. and R. Jones 
were enabled to bring up living stones of memorial to the seal- 
ing, I trust, of their testimony on the spirits of many ; and my 
cup of affectionate fellowship seemed to overflow in secret. The 
next day a gale rose in our favor, which we thankfully accepted, 
and were gently wafted over by it in twenty-five hours." 

On the 20th of Twelfth month, our friends (including G. 
Dillwyn and wife,) landed in England, and on the 27th she thus 
writes to her valued friend, Joseph Williams of Dublin. 



REBECCA JONES. 117' 

R. Jones to Joseph Williams. 

Leeds, \2th mo. 21th, 1785 
Dear Joseph, — George Dillwyn having undertaken to an- 
nounce our safe arrival at Whitehaven, in gratitude and thank- 
fulness to the great Preserver of men, it was less necessary for 
me to write at that time ; yet feeling increasing affection to 
thee, thy family, and other dear friends in Dublin, I thought it 
would not be unacceptable, to hear again from us, and how we 
are at present circumstanced. We staid meeting at Whitehaven, 
and went to Graysouthern that afternoon, where G. D. finding 
his way open for a visit to Cumberland, dropped anchor. Sally 
will stay in the neighbourhood until the Quarterly Meeting for 
that county, which is to be held at Wigton, the latter end of 
this week ; after which I know not how they may be disposed, 
as G. D. like myself, sees but little at a time. We parted, 
under a persuasion that it was the right time and place to leave 
them. My dear companion S. G. and myself, proceeded in a 
post chaise by Kendal and Settle, to this place, taking Wray, 
Bentham and Settle Meetings in our way, and arrived here last 
evening. The weather has proved very cold, and during the 
last two days much snow fell. 

On taking a view of my late travels and small services in 
your nation, though I do find abundant space to write, U7i- 
'profitable servant, yet I feel the evidence of peace, in a full per- 
suasion that I went, continued, and returned, in the right 
time ; and trust, the remembrance of the Lord's mercy and 
goodness, as witnessed by our little band, and felt to be extend- 
ed towards a living, though small, remnant in different parts of 
your country, will follow me all the days of my life. I feel 
that thou and thy beloved valuable wife, with others, will be as 
epistles in our hearts, as we in yours, under the sweet influences 
of tint love which many waters cannot quench. May your 
dear friends, stand wholly resigned to His all-wise direction, 
whose fatherly care and protection are, and will be over you 



118 MEMORIALS OF 

and yours, while the race begun is continued in. And finally 
I ardently breathe for you as for myself, may we be found 
in our lots in the end of days. 

******* 

I hear that one of the Society from Congenies, in France, 
has come to London to consult with Friends, and has brought 
with him a long epistle, signed by about five hundred persons, 
giving a very full account of his people and their present con- 
dition ; that though he has been a warrior, he appears to be 
a solid, sincere-hearted, thinking man, and that he proposes 
staying awhile to acquire the English language. 



^^^^k^ 



The following is extracted from a letter from J. Pemberton 
to R. Jones : 

" It appears there are in two places in our land, convincements si- 
milar to that in France, one about 150 miles from Danby, on the bor- 
ders of Canada. A man who had been an officer in the army, grew 
dissatisfied and uneasy in his mind, retired home, and got into the 
quiet, and sat down with his family, retiring inward to wait upon God; 
this drew the attention of some of his neighbours, who came and sat 
down with them, but did not know there was any people whatever 
that held the same principle they were led to embrace, until some who 
had been in the army, and got some knowledge of Friends and their 
principles, called them Quakers ; they then sought to be informed 
respecting us, and meeting with R. B.'s apology, rejoiced to find there 
was a people who professed this inward principle ; their number is 
about 12 families who have embraced this doctrine. The other set- 
tlement is up the North river, on the west side of it, the number not 
mentioned." 

At the opening of the year 1786, we find by a note, that she 
was enabled to look forward with the eye of faith toward the 
end of her pilgrimage through time, with something of a living 
hope that, " all remembrance of the necessary proving seasons, 
will be lost in Divine fruition, everlasting and eternal." Tim 
notes relative to the early part of this year, afford little molrri- 



REBECCA JONES. II9 

al for our present purpose, whilst they clearly indicate industry 
in her religious engagements. 

First months 6th. — " My H. C. writes me — ' Society con- 
cerns have greatly increased. Our Monthly Meeting (North 
Meeting, Philadelphia,) has become very large ; but I may truly 
adopt the Prophet's language, Our j 01/ is not multiplied? She 
laments the ungathered, airy situation of many of the youth, and 
the unskillfulness of some Friends who have undertaken to nurse 
some of the precious lambs who have been immediately called 
by the heavenly shepherd's voice. She is, upon the whole, in a 
bemoaning, sorrowing situation, on account of divers, yet strong 
in faith, on account of her poor R. J., at which I marvel greatly." 

2d Mo. 3d She notes—" T. Ross said to rae," Dear Becky, I am wait- 
ing for the mesenger. Oh he will be a welcome messenger to me. 
Give my dear love to H. Cathrall, to H, Pemberton, and to all my dear 
friends in Philadelphia. I have heard that several are coming forward 
and growing in the truth, and I rejoice in it. Tell them so. Oh, I 
hope that he who has been with me in six troubles will not leave me 
in the seventh, but will grant me patience till my change comes, which 
wilt be a glorious change to me. Dear John Pemberton, I have be- 
lieved that thou wilt be set at liberty to go home after the next Yearly 
Meeting : and I once hoped to be thy company — but that is over, and 
1 shall finish my course here." 



R. J. TO Henry Drinker, (written at Robert Grubb's.) 

Foston^ near York, 2d ono, Sth, 1786. 
Much esteemed friend, — I have abundant cause to be more 
humbly thankful to the Father of mercies, than any other of 
thy correspondents — not only for the innumerable favors here- 
tofore received, among which the enjoyment of a living union 
and sensible fellowship with the members of the church mili- 
tant, is far from being the least in my view. And thy cordial 
brotherly salutation of the 4th of Twelfth month last, which met 
me here under an exercise of both faith and patience, is an occa- 
sion of renewed gratitude. Thy several kind and brotherly 



120 MEMORIALS OF 

queries were replied to by the silent tear, which afresh flows on 
taking up my pen ; and often has this been my experience on 
looking toward thee and thine, with some other dear friends in 
our native city of Philadelphia, where, may the presence of Him 
who so marvellously sustained us through a fight of afllicfions 
that are past, be mercifully witnessed to preside in meetings, 
families, and the minds of individuals, and by his own saving 
power, keep and preserve my soul with yours in a state of hu- 
mility, watchfulness, and dedication, to the end of the painful 
race. As no impossibilities are required, I have been for sever- 
al weeks with my beloved friends Christiana Hustler and Sarah 
Grubb, in turn, using some medicines which have had a reviv- 
ing effect, and have had an opportunity of frequently visiting 
our beloved aged friend, Thomas Ross, who is drawing gradu- 
ally to " the house appointed for all living," with an unshaken 
evidence (which he often expresses,) that " there is a place of 
rest, prepared for him." He was much revived by thy letter to 
him, and often mentions great nearness to friends in Philadel- 
phia. His disorder being in part dropsical, one of his legs has 
burst and discharged considerably, which has afforded him some 
relief, but we have no hope of his recovery. Our dear friend, 
John Pemberton, is with him at the house of Lindley Murray, 
one mile from the city of York, which will, I trust, prove recruit- 
ing to J. P., as his arduous labors have not afforded him much 
time for rest. He looks well, but considerably older. 

I observe with concern that bodily weakness is thy attendant: 
it has often been so, and it has not checked thy best and most 
worthy pursuits. Let us then, dear Plenry, take courage, in 
hope that " all things shall work together for good," as we re- 
tain our integrity and follow on to know His blessed will con- 
cerning us, whose will is the sanctification of the obedient mind. 
My pen can do but little towards setting forth the excellency of 
his loving kindness, but my soul even now worships with pros- 
tration, and daily craves ability acceptably to adore his unspeak- 
able, unmerited and matchless mercy and goodness me-ward ; 
that he should at all condescend to notice, strengthen and engage 



REBECCA JONES. 121 

one of the least in the family to proclaim his goodness and call 
unto others to come, taste, and see for themselves, that he is good. 

I am pleased with thy account of the Friends from hence. 
May they be furnished with divine strength and wisdom pro- 
portioned to their need ; and that dear N. Wain is so favored, 
is comfortable. The situation in which thou describes dear S. 
Emlen to be, was much his, when in Ireland : we often mingled 
our tears. I had a hope he would get safe home, but I regretted 
his hasty escape ;* and though I do not wish to add to his un- 
easiness about it, yet I am still of the same mind, that if he 
had extended his visit in Ireland to the northern parts of this 
nation, his bundle of sheaves would have been increased. My 
dear love is to him and his, and to the other friends above 
named ; though I did expect he would have written to me, yet 
I know I don't merit his notice, and therefore wish to be con- 
tent. But thou mayest tell him his visit will not soon be forgot- 
ten by his Friends in Dublin. * * * 

Our i. e., G. and S. D., my companion S. Grubb and self, 
leaving Ireland, &c., I expect, will be mentioned to thee by others 
since which, as before said, I have been attending a little to 
the body, and engaged a little among Friends at Leeds, and a 
few meetings in this county, and if no engagement at York 
prevents, I hope in a week or two to more towards Cheshire, 
&;c., where I may probably be detained till the next Yearly 
Meeting. After which, whether I may be favored with leave 

* It may not be inappropriate here to insert an extract from a sub- 
sequent letter from H. Drinker to Samuel Neale, dated Third month 
10th, 1788 ; 

Our valued friend, Samuel Emlen, hath visited our dwelling twice 
this day. He is, as thou must have known him, often feeble in body, 
but continues to be a vessel chosen and appointed to preach the gospel 
in the authority thereof — frequently animated and strengthened to the 
admiration of many. Ever since his last return from your land, he 
appears at times much bowed under a sense of too hasty escape, and 
an apprehension that he must give up to visit some parts of Great 
Britain once more." 

11 



122 MEMORIALS OF 

to return home or not, some of our number, I expect, will. 
But as I remain a poor, weak, short-sighted creature, and G. 
Dillwyn says it is best not to strain our eyes in the dark^ I 
crave that I may be kept in that resignation in which I left 
my native land — with an attentive ear, that when the sound ot 
the trumpet is return, it may with the same certainty and con- 
fidence be followed, as when the command was heard to go 
FORTH. But the continued feeling of unprofitahU servant so 
accompanies all my movements, that I am at times ready to 
fear on my own account, though my fellow servants, I am sen- 
sible, are greatly favored in their steppings. All of whom, I 
believe, are well, and in acceptance and love amongst Friends. 
And thou mayest tell N. Wain and R. Valentine, their labors 
will long be remembered by many. Robert Grubb and wife, 
join me in love to them. 

Malton, Second month 10th. — (At David Priestman's). I for- 
bore closing this, thinking I might have something to add 
respecting dear T. Ross, but find, by a few lines received 
this morning from Wm. Tuke, that I have only the account ot 
his growing gradually weaker : and being easier, they have a 
hope that he may pass the Uttle time that he is continued, with 
less bodily pain, though he is not likely to continue many 
days. I have also a letter from our dear friend George 
Dillwyn, dated the 6th inst., at Kendal, where he, with his 
wife, were in usual health. He is going into the dales of York- 
shire — mentions Patience Brayton as being there and well. I 
have also tidings of dear J. Pemberton's continued health, and 
that he is not easy to leave T. Ross. 

With the salutation of love, I can feelingly subscribe myself 
thy sincere and obliged, though poor, friend, R. Jones. 

R, J. and John Pemberton were detained awhile in the neigh- 
borhood of York, awaiting the release of their aged honorable 
friend, T. Ross. He quietly " ceased to be mortal " on the 
13th of Second month, 1786, at the house of Lindley Murray, 
about a mile from that city; and was interred on the 16th in 



REBECCA JONES. 123 

Friends' burying ground at York beside the body of his country- 
man and friend John Woolman, " agreeably," says R. J., "lo 
the good old man's desire." The time of his funeral was a fa- 
vored season, Rebecca Jones preached with remarkable unc- 
tion at the grave, as did George Dillwyn at the meeting 
house : a large audience being collected on the occasion. 
On the 15th she writes — " Dear J. Pemberton's tried path has 
claimed my sympathy, but he is so admirably supported, 
both body and mind, that I am. therefrom encouraged to believe 
that all is now and will he finally well. G. D. has sometimes 
made a comparison between some of us and J. P., that we 
are disfishing ivith a crooked pin and thread, luhilejohn is cast- 
ing his net into the sea. Oh that his labors may successfully 
gather many to the heavenly Shepherd. In Ireland, Friends 
and others love to speak of him, and also of our deceased 
friend, T. Ross. Indeed, they have seemed to labor more 
abundantly than us all." 

On the 20th of Second month, in connection with George 
Dillwyn and Esther Tuke, she commenced a family visit 
to Friends of York : and on the 6th of Third month with G. 
D. and C. Hustler she began a similiar service at Leeds, which 
latter comprised fifty-nine sittings, ending on the 22d, with three 
satisfactory meetings — one with disowned persons — One with 
those in a tender, seeking state, who, though not members, at- 
tended Friends' Meetings — and one with fifty scholars and their 
teachers. The latter two, as also the Meetini? on the ensuino; 
Fifth day, are spoken of as crowning seasons, and an adequate 
reward for their painful labors. 

A note from S. Grubb, received at this time, says, •' Let me 
bid you go boldly on, and believe that your judgment and your 
work is hid in the holy treasury." 

Writing from Stockport, on the 6th of Fourth month, to 
Esther Tuke, (who was stepmother to S. Grubb,) after acknow- 
ledging the favor of " the living loan from your family," she 
thus continues : 

" Now that my back is turned upon Yorkshire, I cannot say, 



124 MEMORIALS OF 

notwithstanding I have had close and deep baptisms to pass 
through, what dear N. Wain, uttered when he had quit your 
borders, except this, which, I may say with thankfulness, that 
I have been enabled to keep from complaining to mortals, 
and, as dear S. F. advised, have desired " no confidant but 
Eternal Help" — which help I have been made sensible is near 
the true seed there, and will I believe be more signally dis- 
played for its support and preservation, even when it may be 
more signally sought after arid implored. I love Yorkshire — 
many friends in it are near to my very life. I have had to be- 
lieve that under the precious, however painful, operation of 
the holy fan and fire, some of the present rising generation 
there will be preserved, and in the right time show themselves 
to Israel, equipped with the holy armor on the right hand 
and on the left. And I also do fully believe that a time is ap- 
proaching when a discrimination will be made between the 
worshippers only in the outward court, and the deeply exer- 
cised suppliants in the inner Temple. Of which number, 
may you, my dear fellow travellers, both parents and children, 
be happily found." 

Being joined by S. Grubb, they visited Wales and the west- 
ern counties. This journey was rendered arduous by the rug- 
gedness of the country, the road partly being " over the tops of 
very high mountains :" and the scenery impressed her as "ama- 
zing and awful." She speaks of meeting with honest hearted 
friends in Wales, " well worth visiting, and more in the simpli- 
city than most other places. Great openness also among others 
many of whom understand our language, and gladly accept 
invitations to attend our Meetings." 



R. Jones to Joseph Williams.. 

Bradford, Yorkshire, 3cZ mo. 25th, 1786. 
Dear Joseph, — Thou wilt probably be surprised to hear that 
I am still in this country ; and I assure thee that my detention 



REBECCA JONES. 125 

has been as unexpected to myself as to any of my dear friends ; 
yet having an humble hope that I have been in my right place, 
thou knowest it matters little where that may be. 

Thy brotherly salutation of last month reached me at York, 
and was truly comfortable to my poor mind. Having just at- 
tended the funeral of dear T. Ross, I had an opening into some 
mortifying la-bor before me, to which, when our worthy brother 
G. D. came (who arrived in time to attend T. R.'s interment) -I 
soon yielded. He joined dear Esther Tuke with me in a family 
visit there, and I may say that I was thankful in believing that 
George also was in the v/ay of his duty ; for besides his weighty 
and acceptable service in the divers meetings we there attended, 
one of which, with the inhabitants, was at the request of dear 
J. Pemberton, he was much favored in the visit. After this ser- 
vice was completed, we came on together to Leeds, where a con- 
cern of like kind came over me, and he united with my dear 
friend C. Hustler and myself in a family visit there, which was 
evidently owned by the putting forth and leading of the heaven- 
ly Shepherd. We finished on Fifth day last, having visited 
about eighty families. From thence we came here, attended the 
Monthly Meeting, which is large, and expect to stay their Meet- 
mg to-morrow, and to have a public meeting in the evening with 
the town's people. The Quarterly Meeting being held next 
week at York, I suspect I cannot avoid going thither, after 
which I shall again hope for a release from the North. Thou 
raayest judge by this how my way is hedged in, and feel a lit- 
tle for me in my situation. J. P. writes me from Whitley on 
the 20th, that he was visiting families, and having public meet- 
ings thereaway. Wm. Matthews, by a letter this day from him, 
has been held prisoner during the winter in London, where he 
has had many large satisfactory meetings with religious profes- 
sors not of our Society. At the time of writing he was at Hert- 
ford, laid by with a rheumatic complaint in his head and face, 
and was low in every way. He says that dear C. Phillips is in 
a declining state of health ; that Ann Jessop had been in Corn- 
wall, and gets along finely, and that he hears our dear Z. Dicks 

11* 



126 MEMORIALS OF 

is mending. P. Brayton has gone towards Cumberland, and 
W. J. is in Westmoreland. I suppose she with G. D. will at- 
tend the Quarterly Meeting, held in about three weeks at Black- 
burn, in Lancashire ; where dear Sally Dillwyn, whose abode 
has been for some time at Kendal, will meet her husband, and 
probably proceed with him to London. Dear S. Grubb is to 
join me after the Quarterly Meeting, and if her patience is suf- 
ficient, may perhaps set me down in London, where I shall be 
rejoiced to see thee and thy dear wife — and many others of my 
dear friends of your nation, whom I love, and wish well, here 
and everlastingly. ***** 

I am obliged by thy sundry pieces of intelligence, and hope 
thou wilt continue thy truly agreeable and profitable corres- 
pondence, for I can assure thee I am the same poor thing as 
when under thy roof. * * * * 

Farewell, dear Joseph, and be not of a doubtful mind ; for 
faithful is He who has called us into His service ; and I do be- 
lieve He will not leave us destitute of His mercy and care while 
we follow Him in the way of His requiring. Though He may 
suffer us to be deeply tried, as in the depths of the wilderness, 
yet He will make way for His dependent suppliant ones where 
there appears to be no way. He hath promised that " The 
needy shall not always be forgotten : the expectation of the poor 
shall not perish forever." 

I am, with unfeigned regard, 

Thy affectionate friend, R. Jones. 

From the residence of her valued friend Dorothy Owen,* at 
Tythn Ygarreg, she writes, Fourth month, 26th, to John Pem- 
berton : "We came by way of Ackworth, where my dear C. 

* Dorothy Owen was a lively minister, of whom R. Jones often spoke 
with great affection. She used to walk from her residence in Wales 
to the Yearly Meeting in London. In a letter to R. J. in 1789 she thus 
speaks of her family : 

"My mother's name was Lowry : she was daughter of Evan Ellis. 
His place of abode was called Cevercruyn. She was of the family of 
Gwanes. One of the sons of her grandfather, Griffith Ellis, went to 
your parts. His name was Tudor Ellis. My father, Rowland Owen, 
■\vas of the Tythn Ygarreg family." 



REBECCA JONES. 127 

Hustler, receiving a hurt, I went home with her into Lancashire, 
and so into Cheshire and Shropshire, taking the Meetings in 
those parts. After Shrewsbury my prospect was turned into 
this principality. I have been two days coming hither over a 
rough road and mountainous country. Had a comfortable meet- 
ing here this day, and, though divers of the Friends cannot un- 
derstand English, it was a tendering time. Friends from other 
places met us here, because we cannot get to them on wheels. 
After taking Eskirgoch, Llanidloes, Pal'es, Almally, Leominster, 
and Pontypool, we are to be at Cardiff, where their Yearly 
Meeting is held this year. North Wales being then gone 
through, we may, should the prospect continue, visit South 
Wales before the Yearly Meeting in London. Thus I am led 
in a way that know not — but desire to be content and thankful, 
acknowledging that the Lord has been my help and support be- 
yond all expectation or desert in me." 



R. J. to C. Hustler. 

Llanidloes, 29th of Ath mo., 1786. 

My Dear Friend, — I wrote thee a few hasty lines from an 
inn at Welchpool, to inform thee of my coming into this princi- 
pality, and to entreat thee to let me hear from thee. And now 
being a little at leisure, in a kind friend's small cabin, though 
in the chimney corner, with very little light, on my lap, and a 
book for a table, have begun this, which may perhaps be 
finished some future day, and some time reach thy quiet prison 
— from whence I do believe " the prisoner of hope will go forth," 
and that with songs of joy and rejoicing, in the Lord's time, 
which must be patiently waited for. 

We had a precious meeting at Tythn Ygarreg ; many who 
could not understand us, were feelingly sensible of the spreading 
of Divine love over us. At Eskirgoch, in the midst of high hills 
and great barren mountains, to the house where old Jno. Good- 



128 MEMORIALS OF 

win lived and died, came many not of our Society several miles 
on foot, and were solid and attentive. The Welch people are an 
industrious, hardy, plain people, and there are a few precious 
Friends worth visiting. I have a secret hope that there will be 
a revival in Wales, in His time, who doth all things well and 
wisely. The roads are in general sound and hard ; but we 
were comparatively like a ship on the ocean, continually as- 
cending or descending, and the steeps very great, with a deep 
precipice at the side for miles, together ; so that yesterday morn- 
ing a very high wind taking us on the tops of the mountains, the 
probability of being overturned was very alarming. We had an 
honest Welchman with us, who carefully led us in the steepest ; 
and one hill, a mile in length, I walked down, which was great 
doings for me, a poor cripple — so that I have daily need stiJl to 
say, " What shall I render to thee, O Lord, for all thy bene- 
fits? " We got here last evening much fatigued, and though a 
small house, a very little bed, and holes on all sides to let in 
light and ajr, with plenty of company to keep off the lethargy, 
sensible of the kindness of our friends' disposition, we were 
thankful for past preservation and present favor — and are to stay 
here till Second day morning. 

Pales, in Radnorshire, 5th mo. 2d. 
We have got thus far safely. Yesterday and to-day is held 
the Quarterly Meeting at Philadelphia ; my mind has been much 
with them : dost thou think that I shall ever sit with them 
again 1 Whether I ever do or not, there is a precious number 
there, to whom my soul desires to be united now and for ever. 
As we have a bit of leisure this afternoon, though the wind is high 
and cold, having had both snow and hail in showers, these two 
days, I would gladly undertake a walk of a couple of miles to 
make thee a visit, if it could be done ; but, as it cannot be person- 
ally, feel my spirit, my precious, in that which is unchangeable; 
and accept the tenderest salutation I am capable of, with my desire 
that grace, mercy and peace may be multiplied to thee, that 



REBECCA JONES. 129 

tliou mayest "Lift up thy head in hope" — for Infinite Mercy 
does not forget " the kindness of thy youth, the love of thine 
espousals " — and hath promised, " I will not fail thee nor for- 
sake thee." The present sensation is sweet — under it I renew- 
edly feel an increase of Gospel union with thee, and drop my 
pen, in a reverent hope that " darkness will be made light be- 
fore thee, and crooked things straight," through His love who is 
bringing " the blind by a way that they know not, and leading 
them in paths which they have not known." 

^th. — Being got as far as Leominster, I now conclude, as the 
post goes from hence. For these two or three days past, much 
rain falling, has made the roads deep and trying, especially in 
Herefordshire, the soil being clay ; but we have made out as 
well as we could. To-morrow, it is probable, we shall set off, 
having fifty miles to Pontypool, where the Quarterly Meeting is 
to be held on First and Second days— and next day to Cardiff, 
where, oh ! if it were possible to meet thee, it would be almost too 
much joy for me to behave decently under, considering where 
we have been, and how I have fared every way ; but, hush ! 
my faithful monitor reminds me how little I deserve ; so, com- 
plaints of every kind aside, I wish to be more thankful. 

William Young, at whose house we are, tells me his sister 
Catharine Phillips is to be this week at Bristol, where she has 
been advised to come, and L. Hawkesworth with her, who is al- 
most worn down with attending her ; and that C. P. is in a very 
declining and doubtful way, not at all likely to attend the Year- 
ly Meeting there much less get to London. 



* 



' Nathan Dearman," she notes, " presented me with a walk- 
ing stick made of the trunk of an oak tree dugout of a morass, 
at a depth of 10 feet, near Thorne, and supposed to have lain 
there since the flood. Many such have been found, all pointing 
towards the west. The morass contains many thousands of 
acres, the surface of which, nearly 10 feet deep, is turf for fuel ; 
and below it are often found large Fir as well as Oak trees — 
some of which have been used for timbers in houses built up- 



X30 MEMORIALS OF 

wards of 100 years ago, and are still sound srfid good. Where 
the turf has been removed, the ground is in many places culti- 
vated." 

The following certificate was issued by the Half Year's Meet- 
ing for Ireland, held in Dublin, 5th mo. 7th, 1786. 

" Our esteemed friend, Rebecca Jones, having paid a rehgious visit 
in the work of the ministry to the meetings of Friends in this nation, 
and in some instances to the families ; and apprehending herself clear 
of further service in that way amongst us, by a friend requested our 
certificate. These may inform you that her labors of love in the gos- 
pel were truly acceptable, her ministry being sound and edifying, and 
her life and conversation consistent therewith. And we esteem it a 
gracious mark of Divine regard still extended to us, by the servants 
and messengers being thus sent to labor amongst us. May the 
great Master continue to strengthen and furnish her for every good 
word and work, which he may yet call for at her hands in the further 
course of her service iij Europe ; and when this is finished conduct 
her in safety to her habitation and friends, with the incomes of his 
sweet peace as a reward for faithfully giving up to labor in his vine- 
3-ard."— Signed by 144 Friends. 

After the close of London Yearly Meeting, R. J., in writing to 
John Pemberton, gives a beautiful instance of the tenderness 
with which the assembled church could enter into sympathy 
whh a tribulated servant, travelling in the bond of the gospel. 
*' Though thou didst not fully commission me," she says, " to 
apply for a certificate for thee, yet I felt a freedom to tell Friends 
at the select meeting, thy wish, the expression of which brought 
a solemnity over the minds of many, and led to the expression 
of their near sympathy with thee in thy deep and singular ex- 
ercises. E. T., E. H., and J. A., severally informed the meet* 
ing that they had been eye-witnesses of thy dedication, and that 
they believed that thy services had been of great use in spread- 
ing the knowledge of our principles. The meeting desired me 
to convey to thee by letter the expression of their tender sym- 
pathy and concern, hoping that thou mightest be favored with a 
release from the very exercising path in which thou hast been led." 



REBECCA JONES. 131 

In the epistle of this year from the Womens' Yearly Meeting 
of London, to the corresponding body of Philadelphia, the ser- 
vices of the women Friends from America are thus ac- 
knowledged. 

" It has been strengthening in this large assembly to have the com- 
pany of our beloved sisters from America, their united concern and 
fervent labors for the furtherance of the Lord's work, will, we trust, 
be blessed to us." 

She not seeing her way to request a returning certificate, was 
left at liberty to obtain one (if released before next Yearly, 
Meeting,) from the Morning Meeting. She proceeded, accom- 
panied still by S. Grubb, to visit the Western Counties, being, 
as she expresses, " made willing to go down into the imprisoned 
state of the seed, and in deep baptisms with and for it, to feel 
the supporting hand of Divine goodness." 

On the 21st of Seventh month, she writes thus to Joseph 
Williams : " I have had a low and weary travel since we left 
London. We passed through Hampshire and some other coun- 
ties on our way hither, where we have found the state of the 
church low indeed, as in the wilderness, — meetings very small, 
and very little of that living exercise by which our ancient 
friends had near access to the living fountain, drawing refresh- 
ment therefrom, through the precious current of light, life and 
salvation. Yet we have found a few true Jews, who are mourn- 
ing on account of the desolation, and these have been encouraged 
to step forward under allwise direction, in the work of repairing 
and rebuilding the walls : and divers among the youth, appear 
under lively, tender impressions, but they have few, skillful 
nurses, or safe waymarks, among those who ought to lead on 
'n wisdom and firmness. They have been advised to look to 
the Holy Head for preservation and strength, and I do hope 
that some of them will stand their ground, and in the appointed 
sea?on advance to the^praise of him who hath visited their minds 
with the dayspring from on high, and called them out of dark- 
ness into his marvellous light. 

We are now drawing towards " Land's End," and expect to 
return by Minehcad, Bristol, &;c., &c. * * * 



132 MEMORIALS OF 

My way at present is quite shut up from any immediate pros- 
pect of home ; I hope I may be kept in patience the Lord's 
time, yet confess, the thought of my dear friends leaving me 
behind is very discouraging. The country near the sea is so 
hilly we cannot be very expeditious. * * * 

I conclude with desires that thou and I may persevere in 
faithfulness through all our buffetings, tossings and afflictions, 
so that we may be favored with a safe landing at last, on that 
peaceful shore where all sorrow will cease, and temptations will 
have an end, and where our wearied spirits will be forever 
at rest." 

Penryn, Seventh month 28th, she writes to Hannah Pem- 
berton : " I suppose thou art a little cheered in hope of seeing 
thy beloved husband before another year. But, though he has 
a certificate for returning, I would not have thee be too anxious, 
but, continuing in the patience, be thankful that thou art not ex- 
posed to the same necessity to expose thyself to the many jeo- 
pardies he and others have been in, for the sake of that peace, 
which, when obtained, is beyond every other enjoyment. Tell 
S. Emlen, that if he should be sent hither again, I shall be care- 
ful to write to him quite as often as he has done to me since 
his escape. * * Farewell, dear H. ; mayest thou in the 
Lord's time be favored with the company of thy dear husband 
in peace, and, when these kw fleeting moments are over, be re- 
ceived by the beloved of souls into that peace which is pure and 
eternal ; which, on my own account, I often desire, finding 
nothing here worth desiring to be continued for, except that the 
suffering of the present day may work a far more exceeding and 
eternal weight of glory at last." 

In recording, after the lapse of more than half a century, 
these aspirations after a better, an enduring and an undefiled in- 
heritance, the mind is brought in a degree to realize the deep 
meaning of the phrase, " these few fleeting moments ^^"^ (though 
our friend had yet a score of years to tarry for the coming of 
her Beloved) and to rejoice, now that the lives of these valiants 
of Israel are as a tale that is told, in the assurance that they 



REBECCA JONES. 133 

are in the fulness of bliss, having received, beyond all that they 
could ask or think, the end of their faith, even the salvation of 
their souls, being gathered with the just of all generations, and 
beholding their Redeemer face to face, and the glory which he 
had with the Father before the worlds were made. 

Pursuing her journey with her valued Sarah Grubb, she notes 
respecting her, a growth in her gift, and an increased weight 
and clearness in the Discipline of the Church. Her mind being 
turned, with strong, natural longings towards her native 
land, she admired that her way for returning did not open, and 
W. Matthews being constrained to let the ship in which he had 
hoped to take passage, sail from Bristol without him, he was in 
company with our pilgrims at a number of meetings. Being 
deeply grieved in spirit at seeing how many were minding their 
own things, and how few coming forward as they ought, the 
query was often raised, " Lord, what wilt thou do for thy great 
name's sake?" connected with the petition that the Lord of the 
vineyard would " raise up, qualify and strengthen other labo- 
rers, successfully to search the camp, that so every accursed 
thing being removed and judged down, some of the little ones 
may arise and do valiantly." 

*' Why," she writes to a friend, " shouldst thou be ready to 
lay down thy arms and retreat from the field 7 It is a noble 
cause we have embarked in, and there is no doubt of victory 
if we humbly and industriously follow our holy Captain, seeing 
it is decreed that He and his followers shall have the victory. 
It is a time of suffering, and I look for little else. Can we ex- 
pect to reign where the Master does not reign ? Let us then 
be content with the necessary portion of suffering assigned us, 
and not increase it by wishing to be any thing but what He 
would have us be, — because tvithout Him we cannot be at all.'''' 

William Matthews having found it his place (being stopped 
from returning to America) to join himself to the Yearly Meet- 
ing committee in visiting Quarterly and Monthly Meetings ; thus 
refers (Twelfth Month 16th) to the services of his pilgrim sis- 
ter. " In most of the visits we had the company of our beloved 

12 



134 MEMORIALS OF 

sister, R. Jones, who was eminently furnished, not only with 
gospel love and authority, but also with wisdom to point out, in 
our , conferences with those we visited, the way whereby the 
waste places might be rebuilt. She has shown herself a work- 
woman, that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the 
word. I may say her company and fellowship have been a 
strength to me whenever our lot has been cast together ; and 
her growth in her gift greatly increaseth, through her honest 
dedication of heart to her Master's service." 

Sarah Grubb left R. J. at the Circular Meeting at Gloucester, 
yielding her place as companion to C. Hustler. In the Eleventh 
Month this valued partner was taken dangerously ill, so that 
they were laid by a week at Dudley, and several weeks at Shef- 
field. In the prospect of C. H. being likely to be unfit for Win- 
ter travelling, R. J. says, " I shall be like a lonely sparrow, for 
there are very few that have so feeling a mind, and such real 
worth as this meek disciple." At another time she says, '' It 
has pleased the Lord to knit us, as were the souls of Jonathan 
and David." In this place, (as previously at Leeds, Birming- 
ham, and other places,) she found great peace in having select 
meetings with apprentices, female servants, " and those who 
work day's labour." She had also one with parents and heads 
of families. 

After a time of painful exercise at the Quarterly Meeting at 
Leeds, she left her invalid companion, C. H. at UnderclifF, un- 
der great trial, neither feeling at liberty to separate from the 
other. Joined by S. Grubb, she tore herself from C. H., es- 
saying to accompany H. Stevenson to Bristol. But passing to 
Shefheld and Chesterfield, the prospect towards Bristol clouded, 
and her distress greatly increased. Taking counsel from the un- 
erring source, her mind was favored with a calm, and a former 
prospect of a family visit revived. Attending the Monthly Meet- 
ing at Warnsworth, First month 6th, 1787, Esther Brady, of 
Thorne, opened a like concern, greatly to Rebecca's strength 
and confirmation, and on the 8th the visit was commenced at 
Sheffield by the trio, R. J., S. G., and E. B. After sixty-six sit- 



REBECCA JONES. 135 

• 

tings this visit closed on the 26th. During this service she ex- 
pressed herself " deeply concerned for the blessed cause, lest, in 
this time of trial she should dishonor it :" and writing to J. P., 
she says, " I have been ready to think I might finish my course 
in Yorkshire, and be laid near dear John Woolman and Thomas 
Ross. * * Who is so poor as the Lord's servant, or hlind as 
his messenger, &c. Very soon after this her companion, S. G., 
v/as taken alarmingly ill, and remained so for some time. Se- 
cond Month 5th, S. Grubb dictated the following message: "Say 
to Rebecca, my affection for her is unspeakable : also that in this 
affliction I have been sorely athirst for the purest enjoyments. 
As the hunted hart panteth after the water brook, so have I after 
the living fountain ; but my beloved has been a well shut up, a 
fountain sealed." And on the 19th, being again able to take the 
pen, she wrote to R. J., " The extension of infinite compassion 
is marvellous in my eyes. The hand of Omnipotence invisibly 
supported in the time of greatest proving and conflict, when, as 
Jonah said, * I went down to the bottom of the mountains, the 
earth with her bars covered me, yea, and the sorrows of death 
compassed me about.' But for this support I had irrecoverably 
sunk under the sense of gloomy desertion. But I have thank- 
fully to commemorate, that the accuser, and even that condem- 
nation which 1 must have acknowledged my due, were merci- 
fully restrained." We find that on the 26th of Second Month, 
R. J. commenced a family visit at Warnsworth, (consisting of 
38 sittings,) accompanied by C. Hustler, Eliza Hoyland and 
Philip Mayden. The work, she testifies, was singularly owned 
with good — and an open door set before them. Fourth Month 
8lh, she commenced a visit to the families at High Wycombe. 
After this she appears to have been engaged about the neighbor- 
hood of London, in great bodily infirmity. Croydon Meeting 
being much on her mind, she was enabled to administer at that 
place close warning, and also consolation and encouragement. 
After this meeting she was taken ill with fever and acute pain, 
from which, being a little recovered, she was removed to London 
in time to attend the Yearly Meetinsr. The following^ letter was 
written about this time. 



136 MEMORIALS OF 



R. Jones to David Sutton. 

Dear Friend^ — Our dear friend, Hannah Cathrall, of Phila- 
delphia, was a few years ago, presented by her relation, James 
King, with the sum of fifty pounds, understanding that she had 
suffered through the trials which were permitted to prevail in 
America. And she, being informed of the deplorable state of 
his affairs, was uneasy to .retain this sum, which he, through 
intended kindness, had given her ; having a tender regard for 
the reputation of our religious Society, and to manifest that up- 
rightness which the principle we profess leads into, she has re- 
quested that this money might be returned to the assignee, and 
that the creditors may be informed thereof. 

Our said friend is rather in low circumstances, but this did 
not prevail upon her to retain this money, which I have ordered 
into thy hands, and desire thee to pay. I am, &c., 




The money above referred to, being offered to one of James 
King's assignees, he refused to accept it, till the committee of 
the creditors should meet. Several of the committee beincr in- 

o 

formed that a bill for the amount was ready for their accept- 
ance, they said in surprise that it was such an instance of m- 
tegrity and uprightness as they had never known, that " it re- 
flected unspeakable honor to the Society of Friends," and that 
they thought the creditors would not take it. We find, at a 
subsequent date, the last sentiment repeated ; but, whether the 
money was at length accepted, the compiler has not been able 
to ascertain. 

To Joseph TVilUams^ she writes : — 
" I sometimes remember the precious bedewing seasons thou 
and I were favored with together when in Ireland ; and I hum- 
bly pray, according to my small measure, that these may often 



REBECCA JONES. I37 

be renewed to us, when separated in body still farther than at 
present ; and that thou may not be discouraged nor faint in thy 
mind, because of the great insensibility in which so many of 
our fellow members are centred, but that we may run with pa- 
tience the race set before us, so as to obtain the glorious crown 
of Eternal Life which is at the end thereof. Let us keep this 
animatingly in view, and endure hardness as good soldiers ; 
remembering that the Lamb and his followers will have the 
Victory, however the latter may be tried from within and with- 
out." 

The following certificate was granted to her by the London 
Yearly Meeting, although she notes that she had no prospect 
of a time for returning to her home. 

From our Yearly Meeting of Ministers and Elders, held in London 
by adjournment from the 26th of the Fifth month, to the 4th of the 
Sixth month inclusive, 1787 ; to the Monthly Meeting of Friends in 
Philadelphia for the Northern District, the Quarterly Meeting of the 
said city, and General Meeting of Ministers and Elders for Pennsyl- 
vania and New Jersey : 

Dear Friends, — Our beloved friend, Rebecca Jones, having in a 
weighty and solid manner informed us that she apprehends her re- 
ligious service and labor among Friends in this nation is so nearly 
completed, as that she may be likely to return before our next Yearly 
Meeting, and proposed to this meeting's consideration the granting her 
of our certificate ; these may, therefore, inform you that in the course 
of her gospel labors in visiting the churches in these parts, she hath 
endeavored faithfully to discharge the trust committed to her ; and in 
the exercise of her gift, hath been favored with renewed ability to la- 
bor to the comfort and edification of Friends, and hath been particu- 
larly serviceable in the promotion of our Christian Discipline ; her 
conduct and deportment having been becoming her station in the 
Church. And this meeting, after weighty and mature deliberation, 
leaves her at liberty to return to her native country, if the Lord per- 
mit, when she may have finished the remaining part of her service. 
And, in the conclusion of this, her arduous engagement, we hope she 
will be favored with the evidence of peace and divine consolation. 

We salute you in the love and fellowship of the gospel, and remain 
your friends, brethren and sisters. 
(Signed by 204 Friends.) 



138 MEMORIALS OF 

About this time, she had in London eight meetings, exclu- 
sively for servants, apprentices and poor laborers. The whole 
number thus visited was 500, " many of them evidently under 
the notice of the great Master of us all." 

Sixth month 2d, she writes from London to Joseph Willi- 
ams, — " I have esteemed it among the Lord's mercies and fa- 
vors, that I have been enabled to sit most of the meetings, and 
have thankfully rejoiced with my dear friends in the renewed 
sense of the heavenly Father's love, which has eminently at- 
tended this solemn assembly in its various sittings. More 
Friends have come up from the different counties and places 
than have been known for many years. 

With solid satisfaction, I may inform thee that the newly 
established Women's Yearly Meeting here, increases in weight 
and experience; their deliberations have been profitable and 
solemn, and I am strong in the faith, that men Friends will not 
have cause to repent their indulgence to their sisters in this and 
other instances. Very pleasant has been the sight and com- 
pany of so many of my friends from your nation ; and they 
have had their use and service in the general muster. I hope 
it will be not only an easy, but a desirable thing in future, for 
surely the wages will be adequate to the toil." 



From Plough Court, 1th mo. 25th, 1787, sJie uriies to 
John Pemberton : — 

" About half an hour ago, dear Patience Brayton, &c., left 
us, taking an affectionate leave of dear C. H., and poor me ; I 
have striven for leave to go with them, but, it not being granted, 
I am desirous of obtaining strength to stand fully resigned to 
whatever may be permitted to attend. But this has been a bit- 
ter cup indeed. Our dear friends seem all sweet and easy. 
They go at 6 o'clock to-morrow morning to Gravesend, to be 
on board at 11." * * * * * * * 

C. Hustler continuing with her, after the Yearly Meeting 



REBECCA JONES. I39 

they were engaged in extensive and arduous service. R. J., 
testifies concerning her, that she was eminently favored in the 
exercise of her gift, " though she does not take the lead as I 
would have her." 

They parted for a season about the middle of Ninth month. 
E. Hoyland accompanying R. J., in a pretty extensive range, 
and then yielding her place to L. Hawkesworth. Our pilgrim 
was not only, in the companions of her journeys, blessed with 
a signal realization of Arthur Howell's prospect for her at her 
embarkation, that Queens should be her nursing mothers ; but 
striking coincidences in the mode of her being thus furnished, 
evinced that these helpers were provided for her in the care of 
Him who put her forth. Sarah R. Grubb, in referring to a 
prospect, which was unexpectedly realized afterwards, of join- 
ing her, for a short space, in a particular service, thus instruct- 
ively speaks of the authority needful even to act as helpers to 
others in these solemn engagements. " I am more and more 
convinced, that if we are right, we are not at our own disposal, 
and that even the most plausible inclinations are not in general 
to be followed, without they are accompanied with some little 
sense of Divine bidding to render them profitable and safe. 
The protecting providence of the Father of mercies, is, indeed, 
repeatedly manifested to those whose care is cast upon him, and 
whose blindness is that which is peculiar to his messenger." 



R. J. TO C. H. 

Brecknock in Wales, llmo. 6th 1787. 
My last to thee from Worcester informed of my intention to 
move with my dear friend L. H. and John Dearman into this 
principality. — Know then, my precious, that we left Worcester 
last 2d. day morning in our own chaise, but found the road so 
exceedingly bad by the rains, that had fallen, by then we got 
to Bromyard, that from thence we took a chaise to Leo- 



140 MEMORIALS OF 

minster, and staid over Third day there, having a meeting with 
them, which tended to my relief. — On 4th day, as the weather 
continued unsettled, the badness of the roads, the season of the 
year, and the worn down state of poor Jack, (who had enough 
to do in drago-inCT us to Broomvard,) were considerations in- 
ducing us to believe it might be best to leave our conveyance 
at L. to be forwarded to us at some suitable place on our return, 
and go in hired carriages at least as far as to Haverford west, 
and round to Swansea and Neath. — Accordingly, having our 
friend W. Young with us, we left L. about eight o'clock yester- 
day morning, had some showers in the way to a town called 
Hay, which is twenty-four miles, dined there, and came fifteen 
miles from thence to this place, where at a good Inn, we have 
lodged and breakfasted. But my mind was, on awaking this 
morning, brought under a very close exercise, which upon keep- 
ing to myself as long as I could, has at length issued in a belief 
that the resignation of my own will is required even in Wales, 
and on mentioning to the company the prospect of a meeting 
here, they have readily closed with it, and having procured the 
Town Hall, notice is now spreading for its being held at eleven 
o'clock. 

Landilavour the 9th. — The meeting yesterday was small, 
yet I hope the great and good cause did not suffer. It proved 
the most steadily heavy day's rain that I remember in all my 
travels, yet we went in the afternoon about eleven miles to Tre- 
castle, where we lodged. The wind was so exceedingly high 
that I was kept awake great part of the night, not only by the 
tempest, but in considering that we were now in a very moun- 
tainous part of the country, and no Friend within twenty miles, 
and moreover that I had been the cause of my three companions 
leaving their comfortable quiet homes, exposed every day in 
rain, &c., that we were altogether at expense in our journey, 
&c., (a variety of such fears and doubtings as thou art no 
stranger to in me.) So that my mind for a time whilst my 
dear L. Hawkesworth slept beside me, very much resembled the 
tempest of the night — yet towards morning, being enabled to 



KEBECCA JONES. 141 

make my humble appeal to Him who knows the integrity of my 
heart, that I had given up to what I did believe was required 
of me, and that I had nothing in view besides an honest dis- 
charge of duty ; it pleased my great gracious and alone helper, 
to quiet every disturbing apprehension, and favor with the lift- 
ing up of the light of his blessed countenance, even as He in 
His unutterable mercy had often condescended to do in many a 
" needful time of trouble." Under the humbling sense whereof 
I fell asleep, and in the morning resolved to go forward. 

Haverford west, (12th,) at John Lewis's. Since writing the 
foregoing we have had steady and heavy rain, yet we have been 
favored through the Lord's mercy to get on to the far end of 
our journey in Wales, and are better in health than could 
be expected. We had a public meeting at Llandilo, there being 
only four Friends there — from thence, going round to avoid 
the water which by abunsant rain had rendered going one way 
dangerous, Ave reached Carmarthenen the largest town we have 
been in. Here there is a Meeting House belonging to Friends. 
^Ve held a large and satisfactory meeting on 1st day morning, 
after which (though the people expected another in the after- 
noon) we proceeded to St. Clare, and hoping we might have a 
dry evening; changed our chaise, and about forty set off for 
Narberth, which was thirteen miles further. There we were 
obliged to take four horses, or we could not ascend the mountain 
at five miles distance. Before we sent back the two fore horses 
a violent heavy rain came on, and it grew so very dark, that 
by the time we had got within four miles of N. we could not 
see either horses or driver — poor L D. soaking wet behind us, 
not daring to pass the chaise, lest he should be lost in the storm. 
(W. Y. parted with us at C. and hoped to get home in three 
days.) Thou may judge of my situation, what a tossed state I 
was in! but after a sore conflict of spirit, I almost fancied myself 
on the wide ocean — remembering that, in passing over that, the 
" Lord on high (to his poor servants) was greater than the noise 
of many waters ;" — and so I was helped into the quiet harbor 
of resignation, in which I was mercifully preserved through this 



142 MEMORIALS OF 

close trial. We lodged at N. and next morning, having only 
ten miles hither, — -we got in about twelve o'clock, and, to our 
surprise, as well as mutual comfort, met dear M. Ridgway and 
companion, who were also very low and discouraged, having 
been here waiting about two weeks for fair wind to return 
home, and failed reaching their Half Years Meeting. I am now 
under renewed anxiety about poor Wm. Young, an old man, 
and alone in such inclement weather returning — so that my 
precious friend cannot help sympathising with me, — and the 
more so when I tell thee, I am in great concern about return- 
ing : — the roads are so bad, and still it rains. But then I con- 
sider that if I had not been accommodated in a close carriage 
it would have been impossible to have proceeded, yea, I doubt 
whether our Jack will, be equal to the load again ; and yet, 
when the great expense attending the present mode of travelling 
comes into view, 1 am ready to sink and call all in question — 
thus I unbosom myself to thy feeling mind ! — I have endeavored 
to stand open — yea, have desired through the several stages of 
our journey, liberty to turn about, and wished for a discharge 
from the prospect ;— but though I have by night and by day 
thus labored, have not obtained it, and therefore hope to cast my 
care upon Him whose wisdom is unsearchable and his ways are 
past finding out. 

Among other damage done by the late gale last 5th day 
night, a Captain Blackburn, who has a wife at Whitby, supped 
here in the evening, and with four of his hands went in a boat 
towards his ship lying at a distance, was, with three of the 
men, drowned, by the boat overturning just as he had got 
near the ship, and the fourth person, is deprived of his reason 
through the shock ; being saved by his foot somehow fastening 
to something in the boat, so that when she turned up again, he 
turned with her, this affecting circumstance has made deep im- 
pression on the minds of Friends here, as they valued the cap- 
tain, and he had just before left their company. 

To-morrow is the Week Day Meeting here, where there are 
only about five or six families, and no more Friends till we get 



REBECCA JONES. I43 

to Swansea and Neath. From thence I expect we shall proceed 
by Pontypool, Monmouth, &c., into Gloucestershire, so that thou 
will hardly hear from me again till we get into England, where 
I shall rejoice to meet thy salutation. Salute me to all thy 
kind family — accept my endeared love, and hold thyself in 
readiness to come to London and see the last "of the child;" 
pray for my preservation — pity all my weakness, and believe 
me to be thine in the precious bond of Gospel unity though thy 
poor tried, 




R. Jones to Joseph Williams. 

Underclife, 1st mo. Ath, 1786. 

Beloved friend Jos. Williams, — Thou mayst perhaps 
wonder to find my letter dated from this place, and truly, it is 
marvellous to myself also, that having been, as I apprehended, 
fully clear of the North, I should again be directed hither, ex- 
periencing as a truth, that " the wind bloweth where it listeth." 

Having just returned from a visit to Friends in South Wales, 
and expecting to go pretty directly to London, I felt a strong 
draught to the Quarterly Meeting held at Leeds last week, and 
being enabled to reach it timely, have been made humbly thank- 
ful in believing I was in my place there, and thou knowest, if 
this sense does but attend the mind, it matters little where we 
are. Mayest thou, dear Joseph, of whom, with thy beloved wife 
and children, I have of late often thought, having now been 
favored to feel thy proper place in the family, be encouraged to 
fill it with dignity and firmness, and become, under the renewal 
of holy anointing, *' a workman that needeth not to be ashamed." 

I have been for some time expecting a line from thee, but I 
know my own littleness and unworthiness, and am therefore 
willing- just to remind thee, that I was once thy guest, and don't 
forget thine and thy dear wife's kindness to me whilst with you. 



144 MEMORIALS OF 

It is likely thou hast accounts directly from J. Pemberlon, 
who is yet in Scotland ; and from G. Dillwyn, who has been 
mostly in London since the Yearly Meeting. * * 

I am, with dear love to thy household, thy assured affection- 
ate friend, 



l^^r^ 



The next day writing to John Pemberton, she says: "I 
believe I shall spend some time in London this winter, where 
dear G. Dillwyn is still a prisoner; I trust a ' prisoner of hope.' 
Whether he will be at liberty to return with me, I cannot 
tell, and I desire to leave all to Him who has not failed to be 
gracious to us poor Americans ; and who, I do believe, will 
not fail nor forsake thee. A concern seems spreading on ac- 
count of the poor Africans. Many small and well written tracts 
have been published and dispersed, tending to set forth the in- 
justice and iniquity of that trade, and the newspapers have con- 
tinual strokes at it, so that I hope something will be done to put 
a stop to the diabolical business. The town of Manchester have 
formed a committee, and passed many resolutions, and they are 
opening subscriptions there and at York, and some other places, 
to forward the good design. * * * I hope, my dear 
friend, thou wilt not forget me when it is well with thee. Thou 
knowest not how many difficulties and discouragements I wade 
under, and the greatest fear of all is, that I shall dishonor the 
great and good cause which is indeed dearer to me than life 
itself. May the good hand be with thee in all thy goings, and 
crown thy labors with peace, whatever becomes of thy poor 
unworthy friend and tried little sister." 

About this time she became fixed in the prospect of being at 
liberty to return to America in the spring, though she began to 
doubt whether she could with an easy mind depart before the 
Yearly Meeting of London, which would commence on the 11th 
of fifth month. Being solicitous to accomplish all the work re- 
quired at her hand, she used much diligence, even going from 
meeting to meetins when the state of her health seemed to for- 



REBECCA JONES. I45 

bid the efTort. She was much interested in the efforts which 
now became prevalent for the aboKtion of the slave trade, yet 
she was careful to guard Friends, in the modes of expression 
adopted in petitions addressed to the great ones of the earth, 
that in all respects a pure testimony might be exalted. This 
true Christian circumspection was not made a cloke for indiffer- 
ence, her interest in the " good cause" being in various ways 
evinced. 

Reaching London the 4th of Second month, she sat (mostly 
in silence) the meetings for worship and discipline as they came 
in course, and noticing with much satisfaction an advancement 
among women Friends in the work of the discipline. 

Third month 10th, she writes, " I am now a prisoner in Lon- 
don, yet peaceful in my allotment, going almost daily to meet- 
ings, but not blowing my horn in them all. Our dear friends R. 
and S. Grubb, and Mary Dudley, produced this day, to the Sec- 
ond day morning meeting, their certificates, given by Friends in 
Ireland for visiting London, France and Germany, and our 
brother G. Dillwyn revived his concern. The meeting freely 
concurred with them all, expressed near sympathy, and agreed 
to furnish them with certificates from hence. It was a solid 
time." " Shortly after this," she says, *' I am waiting in the 
patience, as an unprofitable servant ought, for clear direction, 
and then shall not hesitate about going with the first likely op- 
portunity." 

The second sitting of the Select Yearly Meeting, held Fifth 
month 12th, R. J. mentioned to Friends, the cause of her deten- 
tion among them, and at the next sitting, (the 15th,) a cordial 
endorsement, (signed by Wm. Tuke as Clerk,) was made upon 
her certificate, setting forth that her additional services had been 
to the comfort and satisfaction of Friends where her lot had been 
cast, and desiring for her, in her return, " the evidence and re- 
ward of true peace." 

After the Yearly Meetmg, attended by C. Hustler, she found 
herself still engaged, so that she could not with a peaceful mind 
take passage for Philadelphia. She went to Norwich, partly 

13 



146 MEMORIALS OF 

to visit John Pemberton, to whom she was closely united, and 
with whom she kept up a frequent correspondence. She writes 
to him from London, Seventh month 1st, " I have hastened to 
the city, after a large, and I trust good meeting at Haddeston 
this day, in order to go on board the Pigou to-morrow, with 
some friends, that if this appears, on waiting for right counsel, 
to be the right time and ship, 1 may be accommodated with a 
good berth. I have the prospect of Ann Warder, and Susan 
Dillwyn's company, (Ana takes two of her children and a ser- 
vant,) &c., &c. Now, notwithstanding I told thee at Norwich, 
that I should fear going in the same ship with thee, unless thou 
felt thyself clear to return, yet if, having had some time to de- 
liberate and feel for the mind of thy great Master therein, thou 
art easy to come and take passage also, I then shall have fresh 
cause for humble thankfulness to Him who has so marvellously 
sustained us both to the present time." 



R. J. TO S. Hustler. 

Carshalton, 8th of 1th mo. 1788. 
My Dear S. H., — As the time of my departure from this 
country seems to draw nigh, and as thou (with the other 
branches of my worthy friends J. and C. H.'s family,) hast often 
been the object of my tender solicitude, I feel disposed (as we 
have a day's quiet rest here,) to give thee one more testimony 
thereof in this way. Though it may probably be my last from 
this shore, yet I shall, if favored to reach my own country, be 
gratified, and rejoice in often interchanging these allowable 
tokens of mutual affection, and hope to be punctual in my remit- 
ances for every one that I shall be indulged with, by any one 
of the inhabitants of that hospitable retreat called Undercliffe, 
where I have been often received, kindly cared for, and tenderly 
treated, far beyond my deserts. Can I then forget those who 
have, through the precious efficacy of Divine love, been made 
so near to my best life, the connexions of a faithful yoke-fellow 



REBECCA JONES. 147 

and companion in the arduous service, through which I have 
been carried to my humbling admiration, in this land ; — an help- 
mate specially provided by kind Providence himself? — can I 
forget those who have been part of the hundred fold promised in 
the gospel, to those who have forsaken all in obedience to divine 
commandment ? surely no ; herein " my heart shall not reproach, 
me while I live." Well my dear Sally, I do also hope and de- 
sire that the resignation of thy worthy father, the condescension 
and dedication of thy dear mother, thy sisterly kindness, and 
the works of love received from the whole family, will both be 
accepted and amply rewarded by Him, who declared that the 
giving even of a " cup of cold water" to one of the least, should 
obtain a disciple's reward. Mayest thou, therefore, become more 
and more the object of Divine care, and by an unreserved surren- 
der of thy all into his blessed hand, be strengthened in full obe- 
dience to all His requirings, that so with increasing years, thou 
mayest happily experience increasing fitness to come up honor- 
ably in that line of service in the Lord's family, which, after 
having undergone the necessary preparations therefor, His wis- 
dom may assign thee, and thus know His blessed will to be to thy 
devoted, willing mind, " thy meat and thy drink." This is my 
fervent breathing on thy account, to almighty goodness, who 
has been rich in kindness to thy soul, and has often made thy 
tender mind, under the bedewings of His love, as " a well water- 
ed garden," wherein He has graciously sown the seed of eter- 
nal life, which, if full room is allowed, and it is suitably cherished, 
will spring up with increase, to the praise of His ever adorable 
name, and thy enriching comfort both here and forever 

I hardly know how to bid the last farewell ! but as I apprehend 
it will be so, shall conclude in the fresh feeling of dear love, 
craving to be had in all your remembrance, and being thy truly, 
affectionate friend, conclude such, and bid thee endearedly, 
Farewell in the Lord, 




148 MEMORIALS OF 

As the time of her departure from England approached, many 
and touching were the evidences of that Christian friendship and 
true unity of spirit which cannot be weakened by separation, 
though it adds solemnity to those partings which, so far as time 
is concerned, are h'keiy to be final. Many a farewell scene was 
crowned with supplication and benediction, and, on these occa- 
sions, the holy presence which had gone forth with her, was 
thankfully felt and acknowledged. The 10th of Eighth month, 
the last First-day before, her embarkment, was to her and 
her associates, " a day of favor." At Grace-church Street 
meeting, in the morning, she took for her text the words of 
David, " Give unto the Lord, oh ye mighty, give unto the Lord 
glory and strength ; give unto the Lord the glory due unto his 
name ; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness." At Devon- 
shire house in the afternoon, she notes having an exercising time. 
At 6 o'clock in the evening she had a meeting with men and 
women servants. 

It has been already remarked, that she was curiously minute 
in some of her tabular notes. From these we find that from 
the time of her embarkation in the '''Commerce," to that of her ar- 
rival in her native land, she had travelled twenty thousand four 
hundred and ninety one miles ; had attended one thousand five 
hundred and seventy eight Meetings, two hundred and seventy 
five of which were those held for discipline, and in which, as 
her friends in Great Britain officially testified, she was particu- 
larly serviceable. She also notes having had meetings with Friends 
in the stations of servants and apprentices, and laboring poor 
Friends, to the number of one thousand one hundred and twenty 
individuals. At a time of mortal extremity five years subse- 
quently, this last named service afiLrded her a peaceful retro- 
spect. " Blessed is he that considereth the poor — the Lord shall 
remember him in time of trouble." 

On the 13th of Eighth month, the whole company of cabin 
passengers who were to cross the ocean in the Pigou, together 
with various friends, dined at Plough Court, with R. J.'s noble 
host, Joseph Gurney Bevan, after which they went to Gravesend. 



REBECCA TONES. I49 

In some of her notes, made during the voyage and given in 
the next chapter, will be found interesting references to her em- 
barkation, and to her final parting with the friends who attended 
her on ship board : especially with her beloved Christiana 
Hustler ; who was her first companion in England, and the last 
to part from her, after the performance of every service which 
the most tender affection could suggest ; and respecting whom 
R. Jones repeatedly said in after years, " / have loved her as 
my own soulP As a parting token, C. Hustler, when about to 
be let down in a chair to the boat, took off her cloak and threw 
it upon her friend — when they immediately separated, with emo- 
tious too deep for utterance, beyond the la^t farewell. 

" But was it such 1 It was ! Where they are gone 
Adieus and farewells are a sound unknown.'* 



CHAPTER VI. 

1788. 

Return Voyage — Letters written on Board the Pigoii — Lands at 
Salem — Attends Woodbury Meeting, and proceeds to Philadelphia. 

Went on board the Pigou, the 13th of Eighth month, 1788, 

at Gravesend, about 7 o'clock in the evening of the 4th day of 

the week, accompanied by Joseph G. and Mary Bevan, George 

and Sarah Dillwyn, my dear companion Christiana Hustler, 

Mary Crowley, Thomas Crowley, John Townsend, Jr., Richard 

Phillips, Anthony Wilson Birkbeck, Thomas Jefferies, &c. Had 

a comfortable season at the Inn previous to leaving Gravesend ; 

and with the above Friends on board the ship, before my fellow 

passengers came, we witnessed Divine goodness renewed to us. 

About 11 o'clock came Wm. Dillwyn and wife, and divers other 

Friends. [Here follows a list of all on board, commencing with 

the captainj Wm, Sutton.] 

13* 



150 MEMORIALS OF 

Passengers iti the Cabin. — Wm. Poyntnell, Geo. Russell, 
R. Jones, Ann Warder, her son John and daughter Mary, her 
servant, Sarah Stewart, and Susanna Dillvvyn. 

Staid up till late, in order to adjust some things in my berth, 
(which, through the Captain's kindness, proved a large airy one,) 
and, as thp wind was fair to carry us into the Downs, I got 
some sleep, but was sea sick, yet I felt easy in mind, and, part- 
ing with my dear companion, C. Hustler, who had been to me 
part of the hundred fold promised in the gospel, and my kind 
landlord, J. G. Bevan, and his wife, and many others, under 
the precious influence of the Father's love, the sense thereof re- 
mained so very comfortable, that I was enriched thereby. 

14th. Our pilot left us about 2 o'clock, and the wind being 
contrary, we lay at anchor, so that by the tossing of the ship 1 
was at times unfit for any thing but lying in bed. Yet a boat 
coming to us from Deal, I wrote to my friends J. G. and M. 
Bevan, to dear L. H., and to my beloved C. Hustler. 

On board the Pigou, IGih of 8tJi month, 1788, 1 o'clock, P. 
M. — My dearly beloved com'parulon, C. Hustler, — Here sitting 
on a hencoop, after a day and night's sickness, by reason of 
head wind, which keeps us at anchor just in sight of Deal, not 
knowing how long we may have to vvait for a change of wind 
to carry us through the Downs, and thinking that, may be, some 
Friend may come and give a peep at us, from Dover or else- 
where — though hardly able to hold up my head, I have got ink 
and paper in one hand, holding it on my knee, while I salute 
my precious Chrissy once more before we lose sight of the 
British shore. Feeling the same holy cementing influence,^ by 
which we have been in the Master's appointment united, and 
now under the same direction separated, I dare not distrust His 
continued mercy, nor that He will fail Flis poor handmaidens. 
My heart and eyes now fill in thus saluting thee. Mayest thou 
be helped to think of thy poor R. J., now in her narrowed in- 
closure, and pray for her preservation in all things. Thou 
knowest I am a poor creature. I suppose thou art now on thy 
way some miles from London, and dear M, C. with thee, I 



REBECCA JONES. 151 

hope she will feel satisfaction in waiting upon a meek, humble 
disciple, who has long accompanied a lesser disciple with whom 
she has united in the great Master's service, and that she will 
be instructed by thy company and conversation, even as I often 
have been. I am so sick, that I cannot say all to thee and thy 
family that is in my heart. Let it suffice, my precious, that I 
feel thy spirit near, as in the days that are past, and what is 
more to be prized, I feel the Ancient of Days is near to us both 
now we are separated. Lift up thine head in hope, that thy 
condescension to the poor servant, out of still greater love to thy 
blessed Master, is accepted by Him, who did by His inspeaking 
voice say to my soul, when it was lifted up within me on thine 
and my account at Walden, " Lo ! I am with you always, even 
unto the end of the world." * * * 

Look towards me with sisterly kindness, for my whole heart 
salutes thee in the bonds of the gospel, believing the pure union 
will not be dissolved by time or distance. I am thy ever loving, 
grateful, though very sick companion. R. J. 

17th. Being the First of the week, T told my female com- 
panions that I should think it right for us to hold a meeting in 
the cabin, to which they agreed, and leave being had of the 
Captain, I mentioned our intention to two men who were our 
fellow passengers, viz: Wm. Poyntnell, of Philadelphia, and 
Geo. Russell, of Birmingham, withal saying, if they were free 
to give us their company it would be acceptable, but if not, we 
should take no exceptions. Accordingly, the whole of our 
company in the cabin, also our captain and chief mate, sat down 
together in the cabin, where condescending goodness was pleased 
to own our first little miCeting in our narrow inclosure. My 
mouth was also opened in a short testimony to his goodness, 
believing we were under his Providential care. The men 
before alluded to, were very serious, and they were very civil 
and attentive to us on the voyage. 

18th, Second day. About 3 o'clock hoisted anchor, and got 
through the Downs well. What a mercy that my mind should 



152 MEMORIALS OF 

be kept in perfect peace, while the poor body is so distressed 
with sickness, and the ship in a continual agitation and tossing. 
Oh ! my soul, trust thou in the Lord, who by his inspeaking 
voice said on my going on board this ship, " Fear not, for I am 
with thee, be not dismayed, for I am thy God." 

20th, Fourth day. Made but little way. Passed Beachy 
Head. I was led to consider that having, according to the best 
of my ability, waited for and desired the Lord's blessed direc- 
tion as to the time when; and the ship in which to embark home, 
and this detention in the channel being in the ordering of that 
gracious Being to whose requirings I had endeavored to stand 
faithful, was comforted in believing that I was under his mercy 
and protection, so that I was hereby kept from murmuring, 
gave up the idea of reaching the Yearly Meeting, and resigned 
my whole body, soul and spirit, to him who knows best what is 
best for his poor creatures. 

21st, Fifth day. Awoke this morning in a quiet, sweet frame 
of mind, feeling my dear friends and late companions C. Hustler 
and L. Hawkesworth brought near to my spirit in the precious 
bond of love and light in which we had often rejoiced together. 
Also, found the cord of love very attractive to my beloved com- 
panion H. Cathrall, which was like a brook by the way, even 
in this my watery peregrination. Oh thou gracious Being, be 
pleased for thy great name's sake to keep us near to thyself and 
to each other, to the end of our time in this world, and what- 
ever thou mayest see meet to deprive me of, or suffer me to be 
tried with, take not thy Holy Spirit and blessed protection from 
me, I humbly pray thee. 

22d, Sixth day. Had a very sleepless, tossing night, so that 
I could scarce keep from falling out of my bed, by reason of a 
high head wind, occasioning a great swell in the sea. My mind 
was, however, mercifully preserved in a steady reliance upon 
that gracious Being who of old time was declared to be " mightier 
than the noise of many waters." I did not rise till near noon ; 
was much tried with sea sickness, so that I was not able to move 
from my chair but with assistance, which Captain Sutton, John 



REBECCA JONES. I53 

Collelt the mate, and our men in the cabin were all very willing 
to render. A. Warder also was in a like situation. Before I 
arose, my dear C. Hustler came sweetly into view, believing her 
to be nearly if not quite arrived at her own habitation, where, 
amongst her amiable family, she will be joyfully received ; where 
I have at different times spent some weeks, and where I shall 
often be the subject of their agreeable conversation, and have the 
sympathy and prayers of the Friends with whom (next to my 
beloved H. C.) I have been most nearly connected in the Father's 
love of any in this world. May I be sensible enough of the fa- 
vor, and may the aforesaid two dear friends, and, next to them, 
my beloved fellow laborer S. Grubb, and my other dear, kind, 
and benevolent companion, L. Hawkesworth, with my own soul, 
be kept under the precious influence of that love and life which 
covered our spirits when together, and united us in travels, visit- 
ing the churches, and in baptisms and sufferings for the Lord's 
sake ; that nothing may be allowed to separate us from one an- 
other in him who went with us, a light and leader, our " Eben- 
ezer," for ever worthy to be followed and obeyed. My mind is 
more exercised on account of dear L. H., whom I left in Lon- 
don, in a declining state of health, and under much discourage- 
ment. Yes, it was a near thing to take my last leave of one who 
had been so tender and Idncl beyond expression to me, from the 
time of my first landing, and rendered me many kind offices to 
the last. When I took from her the parting embrace, and our 
tears mingled together, she said, " My dear, may the Lord's 
blessing go with thee, yes, he will be with thee unto the end." 
This was the day before I left London, when she gave me a 
small parcel, with directions that I should not open it till I got 
home, on which was written, " A few specimens for the hand of 
dear R. Jones." Oh, it was like rending a part of my life to 
part with her, and with my ever dear C. Hustler, which last 
was on board the Pigou to which she accompanied me, staid 
near three hours, helped make my bed and adjust divers things 
in my berth, and was the last woman let down into the boat, by 
a chair fixed on ropes. We wept upon each others neck, and 



154 MEMORIALS OF 

repeatedly embraced ; our feelings were too exquisite to admit of 
a single word more than the mutual "farewell," and then with 
difficulty we separated from each other, she to the boat for 
Gravesend, and I to my berth to feel my bereaved situation, 
which was more than supplied by the incomes of the Lord's 
goodness, whose loving kindness is belter than all other enjoy- 
ments, yea, than even life itself. And my hope was revived in 
that salvation, which has been so richly manifested towards me 
and the worthy companion with whom Almighty Goodness has 
been pleased to favor me, in all our travels through England, 
Ireland, Scotland and Wales. To him, therefore, the Holy 
Shepherd of Israel, be all praise and glory given, now and for 
ever, saith my soul. 

23d. Seventh-day. Had a comfortable night's sleep, for 
which I was thankful ; also that I was not so sick through the 
day as usual when at sea, so that I spent great part of it on 
deck, the weather being fine, though the wind was still against 
us, we not having got farther than Plymouth, which seemed 
trying both to our captain (who is of a kind, quiet disposition,) 
and to our fellow passengers. But I dare not murmur, believ- 
ing that the mighty Ruler of the seas knows best what is best 
for all his depending children. This night I laid down my head 
in a degree of faith that the Lord was near to us. 

24th. First-day. Rose humble and grateful, for the favor of 
another quiet night, and, feeling more able than usual, got into 
the cabin to breakfast. At 10 o'clock we sat down and held 
our little meeting as before, under some sense of the Lord's 
presence with us, and I had to mention some things concerning 
inward and spiritual worship, which seemed to gain both the 
attention and assent of the captain and men passengers. When 
the meeting broke up they withdrew, and then we settled asjain, 
(viz : A. Warder, S. Dillwyn, the children and myself,) and a 
word of counsel and encouragement was given me, for my dear 
female fellow passengers, which had an affecting tendency. 

25th. Second-day. Was quite peaceful in mind. Qur 
whole cabin company behaved with great civility. Susanna 



REBECCA JONES. 155 

Dillvvyn very sweet and agreeable in her behavior and conver- 
sation, so that the detention for want of fair wind, was not so 
trying as it would otherwise have been. About tea time a fair 
wind gradually sprung up. We got quite out of the channel, 
and clear of Scilly Islands. 

26th. Third-day. The wind continuing fair, we got on at 
the rate of about nine knots an hour till towards evening, when 
the rain ceased and the wind grew slack again. Retired to bed 
under a sense of divine care, and, having awoke in the morn- 
ing with "Whom have 1 in Heaven but thee, or in all the earth 
in comparison with thee," it was a good day to me. Blessed 
be the Lord ! 

27th. Fourth-day. Awoke this morning less sick, but did 
not rise till after breakfast, finding myself less able to move 
about than in my former voyage, by reason of stiJEfness in my 
joints, &c. The weather was exceedingly fine, so that my fel- 
low passengers were upon deck, which I also tried, but finding 
it too cold, I descended, and employed my time in working, 
reading, and writing. By staying below, I had a time of deep 
inward retirement before the Lord, and enjoyed the unity of 
His blessed Spirit, both with my near and dear friends whom I 
have left in England, and increasingly so with my dear friends 
in America, whom, if it be the Lord's blessed will, I hope to see 
in a few weeks in my beloved native city of Philadelphia. 
Which comfort (though I anticipate it with pleasure) will, I ex- 
pect, be greatly alloyed by the many painful circumstances that 
will occur ; for the hearing of which my mind had for some 
time been preparing, by a continual sense of sadness, in appre- 
hension, that does attend, both by day and by night. Oh, thou 
most merciful Being, who, for purposes best known to thyself, 
hast been pleased to enlist me under thy holy banner of love 
and life, and hast, by a further display of thine Almighty 
Power, measurably enabled me to fight against the power of 
darkness ; against spiritual wickedness in high places ; grant, I 
humbly pray thee, for the sake of thy blessed cause, which I 
have endeavored, through holy help from thee, to advocate, (not 



156 MEMORIALS OF 

for any desert in me,) that nothing present or to come may be 
allowed to separate me from the sensible and comfortable enjoy- 
ment of thy love, shed abroad in my heart, nor from the pre- 
cious unity of the spirit, in the bond of peace, with thy little 
gathered flock and family the world over. 

30th. Seventh-day. Spent the day chiefliy in reading. I have 
often admired not only the kindness of our captain, but the 
quiet, civil, and sober conduct of the whole crew, among whom 
scarcely an indecent or unsavory word was heard. This, with 
the harmony subsisting in the cabin, the singing of a sweet bird 
in it, and the innocent prattle of A. Warder's children, made 
time pass on more agreeably. But my being less sick than in 
the former voyage, and (what is the greatest of all favors) be- 
lieving heavenly protection and goodness were near us, often 
clothed my mind with a sense of gratitude to the great Pre- 
server of men, who is, both by sea and land, to his depending 
children, a God near at hand, a present help in every needful 
time, to whom be high and endless praises given, because he is 
good, and his mercy endureth forever. 

31st. First day. — At ten o'clock held our little meeting, com- 
posed as before: in which, feeling the spirit of prayer and sup- 
plication, my heart was poured forth to the Almighty, that He 
might be pleased to bless our little company, and to reveal Him- 
self to every soul on board the ship, and favor them with the 
knowledge of His pure will, giving them hearts to fear Him and 
to love His holy law written therein. After meeting, A. W., S. 
D. and myself by turns read many chapters in the Scriptures. 
" Oh that men would praise the Lord for His goodness, and for 
his wonderful works to the children of men !" 

Ninth month 3d. Fourth day. — Awoke this morning re- 
freshed in body, and thankful for the favour of a quiet night. A 
gale suddenly came on, and heavy rain, with squalls, which, 
though fair, tossed us much about : during which my mind was 
inwardly retired to the Lord, in humble secret intercession, that 
for His mercies' sake and the sake of His blessed cause. He 
would be pleased to look down upon us, and preserve us over 



REBECCA JONES, I57 

the mighty deep : when the assurance which was given me on 
my first coming on board with my dear friends to feel after right 
direction, was comfortably renewed, viz : " Fear not for I am 
with thee, be not dismayed for I am thy God." In about an 
hour and a half the sun broke out, and the wind becoming more 
steady we went on pleasantly. Oh, the unspeakable loving 
kindness of the great I am ! My mind this day was variously, 
and, I hope, not unprofitably engaged, taking a retrospective 
view of my stoppings, in the arduous service in which, during 
the four years I have been separated from my native land, I 
have been steadily, and, I trust, honestly engaged. The con- 
sideration whereof, deeply bowed and contrited my mind, and 
qualified me afresh to admire, worship and adore that Power 
which has been experienced by me, a poor weak instrument ; 
and excited a renewal of my confidence in the continued mercy 
of the Almighty, also raising living desires and fervent breath- 
ings and cries to Him, that I may be, through the blessed assist- 
ance of His Holy Spirit, enabled to walk with care and circum- 
spection, on my return to my own country, and, to the end of 
this painful pilgrimage, be clothed with the garments of un- 
feigned humility, gratitude and fear. And now, under a pre- 
cious sense of the Lord having in early life plucked me as a 
brand out of the fire, made me sensible of the multitude of my 
sins, which for His mercies' sake H^e was pleased to forgive, and 
to blot them out as a thick cloud ; by the spirit of deep and sore 
judgment, and the spirit of burning, to cleanse and purify my 
soul from the pollution of sin and iniquity, and for purposes best 
known to Himself, to commission me, a poor unworthy creature, 
to testify to His goodness and the sufficiency of His mighty 
power : has been with me hitherto by sea and by land, provided 
me with suitable companions, and every necessary and agreea- 
ble accommodation, and favored me, from time to time, with 
fresh and sure direction as I have waited for it ; — my soul is 
prostrate in great awfulness. I acknowledge myself worse than 
" an unprofitable servant"— and can set up my " Ebenezer" and 

say, with gratitude and thanksgiving, " Hitherto thou. Lord, hast 

14 



158 MEMORIALS OF 

helped me !" Blessed be Thy great name, for ever and ever, 
Amen! 

And now, in the prospect of my returning to my beloved 
friends and native country, without a home of my own, nor cer- 
tainty of what place will be allotted me, there is at times the 
source of great anxiety. Yet I dare not distrust the care of the 
heavenly Shepherd, who both knows what I want, and how to 
supply with all needful things. If Thou, Lord, then wilt but 
condescend to be with me in the way that I go, give me bread 
to eat, and raiment to put on, and bring me again to my own 
country in peace; Thou shalt indeed be my God, and I will, 
according to the measure of light and strength afforded, forever 
serve and follow Thee. 

" My life, if Thou preserve my life, 
Thy sacrifice shall be. 
And death, if death shall be my doom, 
Shall join my soul to Thee !" 

The remembrance of an honest, upright-hearted remnant in 
the island of Great Britain, to whom I have been made near in 
the fellowship of the Gospel of Peace, and in the frequent soul- 
solacing seasons which we have enjoyed together under the 
covering of Divine Love ; — the travail of soul I have witnessed 
on account of the dearly bSloved youth, in the sense of the 
heavenly visitation being powerfully renewed to them, (divers 
of whom are preparing for service in the Lord's house) ; — and 
the strong desire that I feel on account of my three fellow labo- 
rers, Geo. Dillwyn, J. Pemberton, and James Thornton, whom 
I have left behind in the same field in which I have faithfully 
labored ; — have fully taken possession of my thoughts this 
morning. And a humble hope has been renewed, that some 
good fruits, in the Lord's time, will be produced by all the 
labors and pains that have been immediately and instrumentally 
bestowed upon these parts of the vineyard, and that the honest 
laborers will have their reward, and the gain and praise of all 
be given to the great heavenly Workman, who is now and lor 
ever worthy. 



REBECCA JONES. 159 

All the night it was at times squally, so that we were, I trust, 
properly thoughtful in the cabin : my mind being often lifted up 
in secret intercession to the Most High. 

5th. Sixth day. — I went upon deck and staid about two hours ; 
when our captain told me we had now made full one-third of our 
passage. May not only my poor soul, but all the souls in this 
ship, be fully sensible of the favor conferred, and endeavor to 
walk more worthy of its continuance. When on deck I took an 
opportunity with S. L., a young woman who is passenger in the 
steerage, where there is no other female, and where amongst 
four men passengers, and all the shijys creiv (making twenty- 
two,) she is very much exposed, I endeavored to strengthen her 
mind in behaving with such a degree of propriety among them, 
that nothing may be unpleasantly remembered by her after she 
has gone on shore — advising her that when she cannot becom- 
ingly and consistently converse with them, she had better re- 
main quite silent if she cannot withdraw. I also inquired into 
her stock of clothing, with a view of supplying her if necessary. 
With all which she appeared much affected. I felt much for 
her, as she appears to be a sober girl, and in a tried situation. 
May she be preserved ! 

7th. First day, — Rose early this morning; much refreshed, 
and thankful therefor. At 10 o'clock we held our little meeting, 
and, though it was a low season, yet 1 was glad that I was able 
to say that the Lord was near to us, and that we kept up our 
meeting every First day, having the company of the captain and 
all the cabin passengers. After meeting the captain went up to 
take his observations — we staid below, and each, by turns, read 
in the Bible. 

11th. Fifth day. — My mind was comforted in believing that 
in the right and best time we shall be favored to reach my native 
land and beloved city, when, though T expect to meet with re- 
newed and manifold exercises and trials, oh ! that I may be kept 
in the hour of temptation, by the favor of my gracious Shepherd, 
that so nothing may be able to pluck me out of His hol\ hand 
in time and in eternity ! Amen ! 



160 MEMORIALS OF 

12th. Sixth day. — Rose this morning quiet and thankful in 
spirit, breathing for preservation to my Almighty Helper and 
sure Friend. A dead calm. 

13th. Seventh day. — Awoke refreshed and, humbly thankful, 
but found my berth more uncomfortably warm than I had 
known it before. On deck found the awning up — all hands on 
deck — some mending the sails, some repairing the rigging, and 
the chief mate preparing hooks and lines for fishing off New- 
foundland Banks, towards which we seem approaching. 

14th. First day. — On consulting together, we concluded, that 
with such incessant motion and tossing of the ship, we could 
not sit safely and hold our meeting at the usual time, so post- 
poned it, in hope that we might sit down in the afternoon. But 
the same difficulty attending, and A. W. and myself being 
poorly, we were engaged reading most of the day. S. Dillwyn, 
while A. W, lay down, came and read to me. I was pleased 
and helped with her innocent company. 

15th. Second day. — Was sea-sick in the morning, as were 
my two female companions. But having a fair wind, which 
carried us without much motion five and six knots, we all grew 
better, and were able after breakfast to do a little sewing and 
writing. Walked awhile on deck, but soon retired to the cabin, 
finding the sun very hot. I was awaked in the night by a 
heavy gale, with lightning, which prevented my getting any more 
sleep ; yet, as I lay, my mind was inwardly retired to the Lord, 
and breathing to Him for preservation every way, for His 
blessed cause's sake. 

16th, Third day. The wind increased — had several heavy 
squalls, and the sea ran very high, so that the waves seemed 
hke mountains rolling around us. One wave, while A. Warder 
was on deck, was so near breaking over the ship, that they were 
quite alarmed, and we esteemed it a great mercy that it did not 
reach us. This gave the ship such a lee lurch that a large table, 
with our breakfast tray, which was on it, and S. Dillwyn's box 
of minerals, which was under it, all well cleated and lashed, 
broke loose, and was driven with violence to leeward, where A, 



REBECCA JONES. 161 

W.'s dear little children had just been sitting, and removed but 
a few minutes before it happened. What a signal display of Di- 
vine care over innocent children ! When their mother came 
down, and saw and heard the circumstance, she sat down and 
wept in humble thankfulness — and well she might — for had they 
been in the way they must have been hurt badly, if not killed. 
Our captain informed us that we had passed the banks of New- 
foundland, and that he believed we were crossing the Gulf 
Stream. During the course of this day, I was often led to ex- 
amine myself, whether in any sort I was the cause of this dis- 
tress ; to look back upon my former travels, and to consider whe- 
ther it might not be, in some sort, preparatory to my arrival in 
my native country, and to keep me watchful and careful while 
on board. And, under all these considerations, as I sat holding 
both with hands and feet to keep on my seat, those comfortable 
expressions arose in my mind, "Behold, God is my salvation, I 
will trust and not be afraid, for the Lord Jehovah is my strength 
and my song. He also is become my salvation : therefore with 
joy shall ye draw water together out of the wells of salvation." 
This, with the enriching assurance given me on my first coming 
on board of the ship, '' Fear not," &c., together with the pros- 
pect which my dear friends C. Hustler and M. Prior had at the 
same time — that we should get safe to our desired port — tended 
to settle my poor mind in humble trust in Almighty goodness and 
mercy, through the present, and whatever trials might in future 
attend. Went to bed about 11 o'clock, and was enabled to 
commit myself, body, soul and spirit, into the hands of my " faith- 
ful Creator," desiring his gracious protection for myself, my 
dear friends in the cabin, and all the ship's company. After 
which I soon fell asleep, had a good and comfortable night, and 
awoke refreshed every way. Blessed by my sure and unfailing 
Friend ! 

17th. Fourth-day. — I retired under some apprehension of a 
tossing night, and slept till about 2 o'clock, when I was awak- 
ened by great noise on deck, and the three usual stamps of the 
men, calling " All hands ahoy ! — reef and topsails !" The 



14 



162 MEMORIALS OF 

wind being high and the ship laboring hard, this at first a Httle 
alarmed me, and raised the humble prayer, " Lord have mercy 
on us !" — when presently A. Warder came to my berth, and sat 
by me two hours : in which time it rained heavily, with some 
lightning, and the wind, in squalls, very high. After another 
heavy squall the ship was put about, by which I was turned to 
leeward, and was in less danger of pitching out of my bed. 



R. Jones to Esther Tuke. 

On board the Pigou, on the great Atlantic, Latitude 40o 42' 
Qth mo. 20th, 1788. 

i)early beloved Friend, — Being often favored, whilst floating 
on the mighty ocean, to feel near unity of spirit with such dear 
friends in the land whence (with my natural " life for a prey," 
and a degree of that peace which exceeds description,) I have 
now escaped, with whom I have enjoyed sweet fellowship, and 
who are still near to my best life ; and thou, among others, 
having been pleasantly brought into view this morning, I have 
sat down in order to give thee some account of thy poor feeble 

I have given up all thought of reaching our Yearly Meeting, 
so that if more is given me than I expect, I shall give it a place 
among the many marvellous displays of Almighty goodness, of 
which I have been a thankful, grateful witness. But not this 
mighty deep, nor length of time, will, I trust, ever erase from 
my remembrance an honest, faithful-hearted remnant, a tender 
visited seed, a highly favored people in that nation, whom ever- 
lasting loving kindness has so signally cared for, and at whose 
hands He is now looking for fruits adequate to his abundant 
care over them. May the upright, affectionate, disinterested 
labors of the poor servants, who have been sent amongst you, 
be in some degree promotive of this great end. May the hands 
of tl)e faithful among you be made strong to the removing of 



REBECCA JONES. 163 

every obstruction in the way of advancement. May the dear 
youth who have be^^n enamored with the brightness of the Di- 
vine power arising in their hearts, " keep humbly their solemn 
feasts, and faithfully perform all their vows." May the "north," 
through the softening influence of holy animating love and life, 
be prevailed upon during the day of offered mercy to " give 
up," and the " south," in a state of faithful obedience to the 
Divine will, " keep nothing back," is my humble prayer. 
Then will your light go forth with encouraging brightness, and 
the clothing of Divine salvation, on all the different classes in 
the family, be conspicuously clear " as a lamp that burneth." 
Nor shall I be, I humbly hope, deprived of the enjoyment of 
the bond of christian fellowship with those who meet at the 
approaching annual solemnity in Philadelphia, and at your 
Quarterly one held about the same time ,* but, by the great and 
good Remembrancer, may I, in this my watery peregrination, 
be raised as an epistle in your hearts, and feel the efficacy of the 
fervent prayer of the righteous, with whom I pray that I may now 
and forevei' be united. I know I am an "unprofitable servant," and 
yet can appeal to the great Master in a degree of childlike sim- 
plicity, that I have endeavored to do that which was required as a 
duty at my hands : and for the encouragement of other poor weak- 
lings I have to testify to the goodness of that hand which " put 
forth :" it has gone before, made crooked things straight, and 
cast up a way, even when and where to my view there has ap- 
peared no way. So that now, though I am going to my own 
country and people, with no spoil taken, yet am I returning with 
that acknowledgment made by the early publishers of the gos- 
pel in reply to the query, " Lacked ye anything ?" and can, 
with reverence of soul, say, " Nothing, Lord." I know that it 
will be still necessary for me to feel after and dwell deeply with 
the heavenly gift on my return ; and oh, that under its blessed 
influence, I may be favored with patience, lest, for want of this 
profitable virtue, I should lose the things which have, through 
holy help, been wrought, and so miss of that consummate re- 
ward with which we are not fully entrusted until the end of the 



164 MEMORIALS OF 

painful race. May this, dear Esther, be thine and my gladden- 
ing experience when this short fight of affliction is over, is my 
fervent prayer. 

I shall be much disappomted if I do not frequently hear from 
the houses of York and Holdgate. To all of them is my dear 
love, and to my other dear friends in your country, as if 
named. Thou knovi'est who they are: they are too numerous 
for insertion, but not too many " in order one by one to rise" 
in my affectionate remembrance. When you do write, mention 
how " the lilies flourish, and the pomegranates bud and blos- 
som," and whether " the garden of nuts" has furnished any 
more ripe fruits for the King's table — with whatever is interest- 
ing to thee : lor it will be so to me, because we are (dare I pre- 
sume) soldiers in the same army, consequently entitled to hear 
of the several movements therein. * * * * 



4^^ 



20th. Seventh-day. Awoke afreshed, and with an easy mind. 
But soon found, on getting up, that the wind blew fresh and 
quite contrary, which was a fresh trial of faith and patience, 
when, on considering a little what should be the cause, and why 
we have such an unfavorable prospect, my mind was silenced 
from enquiry by a secret persuasion that it was all for the best, 
though not for the present seen to be so. Whereupon I again 
resigned to the thought of not reaching our Yearly Meetmg, 
which, had it been, or should it be the Lord's blessed will we 
should do, would have been a comfortable circumstance. But 
as I have often been fully convinced that our Almighty Shep- 
herd knows best what is best for his poor sheep and dependent 
children, may his holy will be done in all things, saith my soul. 
Our captain spoke a sloop this morning from Grenada, out 18 
days, bound for Newfoundland, and upon comparmg the ship's 
reckoning, it appeared that we were not by three degrees as for- 
ward in our passage as we expected. This was unpleasing tr- 
ings to our company, who had fixed the 7th of next month for 



REBECCA JONES. 1^ 

getting to Philadelphia. In the evening the wind lowered, and 
it again grew calm, so that we retired early and soon went to 
sleep, trusting in the Lord. 

21st. First-day. About 5 o'clock, the wind for the first time 
was on our stern. It blew fresh, and rained heavily. I rose 
early, in hopes that we might hold our little meeting, and once 
more in the cabin together wait upon the Lord. But the wind 
so increased that we kept our seats with some difficulty. The 
dead lights were all put in, and candles brought into the 
cabin. I, however, sat down in quiet about an hour, with my 
mind inwardly turned to the Lord, who is worthy to be waited 
upon at all times. The ship was the whole day in a perpetual 
roll, from side to side, and a day of the most heavy and steady 
wind, our captain said, that he ever remembered, so that the 
poor men were wet to the skin, and we could not stir at all out 
of the cabin. We went, through the day, at the rate of 8 and 
9 knots. The great motion, rolling, and thumping of the waves 
was alarming at first, but our Captain told us we were crossing 
the gulf stream, so that if the wind had taken us ahead instead 
of astern, or had it been quite calm as before, we should have 
been in a much worse situation. This, and his further infor- 
mation that this wind in Delaware bay would inevitably run us 
ashore, humbled and deeply affected my mind, leading to the 
renewed inquiry, " What shall I render to the Lord," &c. A. 
W., having dreamed of her husband, pleased herself with the 
thoughts of getting to Philadelphia in a few days more. But 
having always found that I fared best when I was most fully 
resigned to the Lord's will, and having been favored to come to 
this desirable attainment, I did not dare to flatter myself with so 
agreeable a circumstance, though fully persuaded that all things 
are possible with our gracious Creator. 

22d. Second-day. * * * Our company seemed highly 
pleased with hopes of soon getting on shore; but, on divers ac- 
counts, my rejoicing is in fear. Oh, thou great Preserver of 
men, condescend to fortify my mind with a reverent trust in thy 
goodness and providential care, and clothe me with humility and 



166 MEMORIALS OF 

watchfulness on my first meeting my beloved friends, and to the 
end of my time in this uncertain, fallacious and wicked world, 
for thy mercies sake ? In the evening the wind shifted, and by 
2 o'clock the wind again shifted, and blew a heavy gale directly 
against us. Captain Sutton ordered all sails made snug, and 
lay too about twelve hours, during all which time the dead 
lights were in, and the ship labored so much, and the sea was 
so high, that it made the most awful and gloomy appearance I 
ever beheld. Dear A. W., and I, not being able to keep safely 
in bed, sat up till day light. W. P., being much alarmed, sat 
up with us all night.* 

23d. Third-day. The wind much lowered, though the sea 
ran very high, and it was dangerous moving from our seats. I 
staid in my berth, and, as in the night, my mind was often en- 
gaged in humble intercession to the Almighty for our preserva- 
tion, and that he would be pleased, for His great name's sake, 
to have mercy upon us, and influence our Captain with wisdom, 
and his men with strength in so perilous a time. About 8 
o'clock, P. M., it was nearly calm, and I was told that it was 
likely to remain so. 

24th. Fourth-day. After a good night's rest, I arose refreshed 
and thankful for the favor. This day makes just six weeks since 
we came on board. Light wind, but fair. About 11 o'clock 
we espied a sail, which proved to be a schooner — Juno — from 
New York, laden with corn, and bound to TenerifFe. She had 
been out about a week — had met with a gale of wind last First 
day, when we were going before it at the rate of ten knots. 
Had been under the necessity of throwing overboard 60 bushels, 
and cutting in two her long boat, one-half of which she threw 
overboard to lighten the ship. Her captain desired Capt, Sut- 

* Sarah R. Grubb, writing to R. J., says — '<If I am not mistaken, 
since thy leaving London, thou hast had thy portion of awful sensa- 
tions on the mighty waters. My heart was so almost continually with 
thee, and so affected sometimes, as to amount to painful conflict, so 
that I could hardly conclude that it originated merely in those natural, 
affectionate feelings, which a separation from one so beloved occa- 
sioned." 



REBECCA JONES. X67 

ton to take a letter for him, and, to bring it to us, they imme- 
diately launched a small skiff with one of their hands, who, with 
two oars, made his way very dexterously over the waves, and 
brought the letter, returning safe again. This was a pleasing 
circumstance to all our company, who were with one consent 
gathered to the larboard side to look at fellow men floating, like 
ourselves, on the watery element. But as I stood looking on, 
and considering how we had been preserved in that very gale, 
by which they had been distressed, my heart overflowed with 
gratitude and thanksgiving, and mine eyes with tears, and the 
more so when I adverted to what might have been the conse- 
quence had we been in the bay at the time. The sense of the 
Lord's protecting goodness extorted from me this expression in 
the hearing of all, " Thanks be to Him who is forever worthy." 
This sense continued sweetly the covering of my spirit through 
the day. We made some preparation towards going on shore 
when it shall please the Lord so to favor us, which, when grant- 
ed, will, I trust, sink me in the deepest gratitude, fear, obedi- 
ence and love to mine Almighty Helper and Protector, all the 
days of my life. In the afternoon we w^re easy and pleasant on 
deck, and in the evening came down to writing. My heart felt 
peaceful and humble, which, I pray, may be continued to me 
till landing on my native shore, and forever, Amen ! Through 
the night I had not a wink of sleep, yet my mind was tranquil 
and easy. 

[For several days they were subjected to storms and conse- 
quent discomfort.] 



Ninth month 28th. First day. — After a good night, awoke 
with the remembrance of its being the time of our Yearly Meet- 
ing in Philadelphia, where many worthy and dear friends are 
collected, and where, had it been the Lord's good pleasure, I 
s.hould have rejoiced among them. But as it is so ordered, I 
desire to be content in the enjoyment of that blessed fellowship 
of spirit which cannot be quenched by the mighty waters be- 



168 MEMORIALS OF 

tween us, and is the solid rejoicing of the heavenly minded 
family every where. After breakfast, I informed the captain of 
a wish which I felt, that if he had no objection, an invitation 
might be given to the steerage passengers and to the sailors, to 
sit with us at our little meeting. He readily consented, and 
sent the steward to give them all notice. We sat down at ten 
o'clock. Some of those invited, came and behaved soberly, 
and my heart was enlarged in gospel affection towards them, 
and under the influence, I trust, of the spirit of true prayer, was 
enabled to intercede for our preservation, and for redemption 
from all iniquity. Oh, that the request may, in adorable mercy, 

be granted ! , was much affected in the meeting, and 

appeared solid and thoughtful after it. * * * Our captain 
sounded and found no bottom. 

29th, Second day. — May I be favored with patience and re- 
signation in the present trying allotment, thus detained from 
assembling with my dear friends in Philadelphia, at their 
Yearly Meeting, because All-perfect wisdom knows best what 
is best for us. 

30th, Third day. — Still an unfavorable prospect. Our cap- 
tain found bottom in fifty fathoms water ; on hearing which, 
divers of our company appeared very much elated, even to an 
exstacy ; but my mind felt very much restricted from appearing 
outwardly to rejoice. Soon after, the wind sprang up so fair, 
that we ran into five fathoms. Upon this, our captain, who is 
prudently careful, stood to the southward. The wind increased 
to a strong breeze from the N. E., so that towards evening, we 
lightened sail, and about six o'clock, spied land ahead at about 
six leagues distance. All things then laid snug, we lay at the 
mercy of the wind and waves, which were under the direction 
of the Most High, till morning. 

10th month 1st, Fourth day. — Wind still the same, and the 
sea running very high. About eleven o'clock we espied a pilot 
coming towards us, who proved to be Harry Fisher, a skillful 
man. On his coming on board, our captain and all the ship's 
company seemed relieved. He told me that he was last week 



REBECCA JONES. 169 

in Philadelphia, and that I was expected to the great meeting 
there. He brought us a few apples and peaches, which S. D. 
and I particularly enjoyed. Oh, how my soul worshipped in 
deepest prostration, and craved to be kept little, low, and hum- 
ble in going amongst my dear friends, under the present mercy, 
which is indeed marvellous in my eyes. Blessed and forever 
magnified, be the name of the Most High, from this time forth 
and forever more ! 

Last night I was comforted in remembering that last Sixth 
day night, which was a time of sore exercise in a storm of wind, 
thunder, and rain, I was assured this would be the last storm ; 
and that we should safely get to Philadelphia before the Yearly 
Meeting ended. So that I had no creaturely fears to contend 
with. But my health feels too much impaired to promise my- 
self much enjoyment for a time, and having no fixed home to 
go to, feels discouraging; but I dare no more distrust Divme 
care, now nor forever. 

Rain came on in the evening, and it was very dark, so that 
we were truly glad we had got to a safe anchorage within the 
cape, as the wind blew fresh against us. — Dropped anchor at 
eight o'clock, below Bombayhook, and in the cabin afterwards 
our captain and pilot spent the rest of the evening with us, the 
latter giving some accounts of Philadelphia. 

2d, Fifth day. — A head wind, our ship could get no farther 
than within five miles of Salem, and being assured that unless 
the wind changed, we could not get up till first day, and being 
desirous of reaching the Yearly Meeting before it ended, I con- 
cluded to go with our company on shore. So our kind captain 
ordered the ship's yawl to be launched, and sent four of his 
men, who, with the pilot, (after the latter had taken a respectful 
leave of all on board,) took us on shore, to the house of a Friend 
named Clement Hall, who took us in his wagon to John Red- 
man's in Salem, where we lodged, and found the family all very 
kind. 

On Sixth day, the 3d instant, R. J. notes — "We rose early, 
and two wagons having been provided, having Emmor Baiiy 

15 



170 MEMORIALS OF 

and Elgar Brown for drivers, we got on well and safely to 
Woodbury, just as Friends were going to their week-day meet- 
ing; whereupon I felt a draught on my mind to meet with them, 
and left my companions to their liberty. They not being in- 
clined to go, I went alone." 

Our pilgrims, halting at Woodbury, noticed a few Friends 
going to meeting, and anxious as they all were to reach Phila- 
delphia, R. Jones could not feel at liberty to pass the first meet- 
ing of Friends after her arrival without attending it. Her 
companions left a vehicle and driver for her, and proceeded. 
Owing to the attendance at Yearly Meeting, the number of 
Friends assembled was of course small, and she was only re- 
cognized by one person present, Margery, wife of Samuel 
Mickle. Having relieved her mind, and after sitting a short 
time, feeling easy to do so, she informed Friends that she 
wished to attend the closing sittings of the Yearly Meeting, and 
desired that the meeting might not be disturbed by her quietly 
withdrawing. The Friend already referred to, followed her 
out. Her carriage soon overtook the one containing her friends, 
and, saluting them, she passed on before. They crossed the 
Delaware in company, no time having been lost by her attend- 
ing Woodbury Meeting. 

" We arrived," she writes to S. Alexander, " on the 3d, just 
two days before the close of our Yearly Meeting, (after a pas- 
sage of seven weeks from Gravesend, but only thirty-six days 
from land to land,) so that I had the satisfaction of seeing my 
dear friends generally from the country, and truly our joy was 
mutual : and in the assembly of the Lord's people to give Him 
thanks for his mercies." 



REBECCA JONES. ij^ 



CHAPTER VII, 

1788 to 1790. 

Attends closing sittings of Yearly Meeting and returns her certificates 
— Diary letter to J. P — Letier from S. Grabb — Present from pupils 
of Clonmell school — Parts with H. Cathrall and takes lodgings with 
James Goram — Letter to J. Williams — Visits the Yearly Meetings, 
on Long Island and on Rhode Island — Letter to Dr. Cathrall and to 
other Friends — Sickness — Journey to Maryland. 

" On the first sight of my native city," she says, " my heart 
was so affected, that I seemed near fainting; but, after relieving 
myself with many tears, I felt deeply humble and thankful, 
under a sense of marvellous preservation every way expe- 
rienced ; but more particularly so on the mighty deep, as the 
Harmony, Capt. Willett, who sailed with us from the Downs, 
came into port about the same time in a wrecked condition, from 
a storm which we were favored only to feel in part. We landed 
at the old ferry," (this was about one o'clock,) " from whence, 
taking leave of my company, I went to Johns Hopkins',* where 
I dined, and dismissed a letter to H. Pemberton to let her and 
my H. C. know that I was landed. S. Emlen came in his 
chaise and sent me in it to Richard Humphreys,! where my 
H. C. met me. We were deeply affected on seeing each other, 
and together blessed the Lord for his abundant goodness and 
mercy. I was shocked in looking at her, and thought her every 
way more altered than any other person. At three o'clock went 
to the Women's Meeting, where a general solemnity soon over- 
spread us, and I was engaged publicly to return thanks to my 
great and gracious Helper, Preserver, and Everlasting Friend, 
the Lord Almighty, who is worthy to be served, feared and 
obeyed, for ever and ever." 

* Water street, between High and Mulberry streets, 
t Next door to Market Street Meeting, 



172 MEMORIALS OF 

Her arrival was know.n to few Friends till her appearance at 
the afternoon sitting. 

Soon after the meeting was settled, Rebecca appeared im- 
pressively in supplication, and the remarkable covering of so- 
lemnity was long remembered by those who were present. 
" Before the meeting broke up," she notes, " I went up to John 
Pemberton's, to avoid being stopped by the crowd of Friends 
who were glad to see me again, and in the evening several came 
to see me. I was much fatigued with this day's labor, but got 
some quiet good sleep." 

Next morning in the Select meeting, she returned the certifi- 
cate granted to her by that meeting in the 3d month, 1784, with 
endorsements from the Yearly Meeting held in London in the 
years 1787 and 1788, and from the Half Year's Meeting for 
Ireland, Fifth month 9th, 1786. 

Her diary thus proceeds : 

4th, Seventh day. — Rose refreshed, and with a mind deeply 
bowed in gratitude to the great Preserver of men. At eight 
o'clock went to the last sitting of the Select Yearly Meeting, 
where I returned my certificate which they had given me, and 
also delivered those given me from Ireland and England. And 
though I had not much to say for myself, I was enabled openly 
to declare that not only was the promise made to the early dis- 
ciples when sent forth, mercifully fulfilled to me in every part, 
so that I could say on my return as they did, that I had lacked 
nothing, but that the reward of Peace was more than adequate 
to all the endeavor I had been enabled to use for the promotion 
of the one great and good cause. After this meeting concluded, 
I went to that for business among Women Friends, which was 
large and solid. Dined with many friends at J. P.'s, and before 
bed time, had an opportunity of seeing many of my dear friends 
who called there. 

5th, First day.— -This being the first First day after my landing, 
I chose to go to the Bank Meeting, that being the one to which 
I had always belonged. I attended both morning and aflei- 
noon, and sat in silence. Dined at Henry Drinker's ; drank 



REBECCA JONES. I73 

tea at Wm. Compton's, and having much pain, did not go to the 
evening meeting ; but after sitting an hour at Daniel DrinJver's 
with G. and H. Churchman, went to my lodgings. 

6th, Second day. — Was at the second day Morning Meeting ; 
dined at James Pemberton's, and there, and in the evening, fin- 
ished divers letters begun on board the Pigou, and sent them 
by the , going to Cork. 

Various letters commenced on ship-board, were finished on 
her arrival. In a postscript to one addressed to Jno. Pember- 
ton, she says, (10th mo., 6th,) "I can't help wishing it may be 
thy lot to return in the Pigou, when it shall please our great 
Master to set thee at liberty — till when, may patience and holy 
stability be thy covering and girdle, that so thou mayest return 
with a clear evidence of having " finished the work" assigned 
thee, and in the right time. Which I can say with humble 
thankfulness, is in some degree my experience, though I am 
sensible I have not been fitted for great things, and am " an un- 
profitable servant." The reward of Peace is more than ade- 
quate to the exercise I have undergone for the sake thereof. 
So, dear friend, be encouraged through all to look to that good 
hand which has hitherto supported us, and is able to keep us to 
the end. I am now quietly seated in thy front parlor, with thy 
beloved wife, who is about as well as common, and received me 
very kindly into her house, though she appeared not a little dis- 
appointed at not receiving thee also — yet she bears it with 
becoming patience and resignation. W^e arrived at Philadelphia 
last Sixth day, the 3d inst., timely for the afternoon meeting 
for business. Next morning at the Select Meeting had my cer- 
tificates read, and at the concluding Women's Meeting after- 
wards. So that I was at three meetings with my beloved 
friends, who were all, with me, mutually glad in seeing each 
other, under the humbling sense of the Lord's goodness in many 
ways extended to me, a poor, unworthy creature. An eminent 
display whereof we witnessed in a hard gale, a Cew days before 
we reached the land ; which, though it did our ship no damage, 
was very bei^vy upon the Harmony, Captain Willitt, who left 

15*" 



174 MEMORIALS OF 

the Downs with us, and arrived in a shattered condition soon 
after us — having carried away her mizzen mast and quarter 
galleries, washed away her caboose, with two men in it, several 
of her live stock, &c., and lay four hours on her beam ends, 
without her dead lights in. Which, when I heard, oh, how my 
heart was humbled within me in a grateful sense of Divine pre- 
servation over us, for which I hope to be forever thankful. 
* * * * 

I see great alteration in people and things, many look more than 
four and a half years older, and my dear H. C. is one of the 
number. We have not yet got a house, but hope we shall soon. 
But thy dear wife wishes us to be content with this. * * 

May the God and Father of all our mercies, who has thus 
favored me to return in peace, be with thee in the way in which 
thou goest, and in the appointed season, restore thee to thy be- 
loved wife and near connexions." 

After her return to her native land, she accepted the hospita- 
lity of her friend Hannah Pemberton, until Tenth month 22d, 
when, having obtained a house, she, with her former companion 
H. Cathrall, removed to it. We find her domestic accounts 
and business records interspersed with memoranda, from which 
occasional extracts will be given. 

" Tenth month 9th. 5th day. At meeting. — Warner Mifflin, 
and Ann Emlen, married. More in the simplicity, and with 
less parade than 1 have ever seen on the like occasion, I fear 
they will not have many followers in this city. 

12th. — First day. Was at Bank Meeting twice, and in the 
evening at Market-street. 

ISth. — Second day morning meeting. Samuel Smith open- 
ed a concern for England 

27th. — Second day. At the select meeting, dined and drank 
tea at John Warder's, where also dined Capt. Sutton, Geo. 
Russell, W. Poyntell, and Susanna Dillwyn — all my fellow pas- 
sengers in the Pigou. 

28th.— Third day. Monthly meeting at Bank. R. J. ap- 
peared, I gave in certificates to both meetings. S. Harrison ap- 



REBECCA JONES. X75 

peared in supplication. S. Emlen came into women's meet- 
ing. 

11th mo. 1st.— Seventh day. At two meetings in the great 
meeting house, in both silent. 

3rd. — Second day. Our Q. Meeting. Delivered my certi- 
ficates in both men's and women's meeting. Adjourned at 5 
o'clock, a good time. 

9th — First day. At Bank meeting, twice in silence. In the 
evening kneeled. 

10th — Second day. Was at the select meeting. Mentioned 
the black people's having leave of their masters in a morning 
for attending meeting." 

Eleventh month 14th, she was comforted beyond expres- 
sion by the reception of a letter from her beloved Sarah R. 
Grubb, the following extract from which will meet a res- 
ponse in the hearts of those of our readers who, being amid 
the conflicts of time, preserved in " the bond of peace," feel 
that they, like these precious sisters, " stand together in the 
unity," — having in themselves the evidence that they have 
" passed from death unto life." 



Sarah Grubb to R. J. 
" I do indeed join thee in the grateful tribute of thanksgiving 
and praise to our ever-living Helper, who, blessed be his name 
has done, and will, my soul is renewedly and firmly persuaded, 
continue to do for thee, great things ; wherein his own eternal 
name will be exalted, and thy acceptance with him stand for 
ever. Ah my precious friend, these truly are great things ; 
not works of righteousness which the creature itself can do 
— no — his mercy and his truth are marvellous in our eyes, and 
that effectual washing, that fiery baptism of spirit which pre- 
pares instruments to convert sinners unto Him. I congratulate 
thee, as my spirit did in my last, which was written before 
I heard of thy safe arrival in Philadelphia, from whence thy 
rejoicing salutation of 10th month 6th. reached rny hands a 



X76 MEMORIALS OF 

little before meeting time last Fifth-day. It almost unfittec] me 
for going, because my mind had been exceedingly tried about 
thee for a little while, both by night and day, towards the latter 
part of thy passage. But this meeting proved a salutary oppor- 
tunity for me, under the assistance then afforded, to centre down 
to the ROOT which bears the branches, whose direction is as 
various as every point in the compass ; — and yet they have all 
the same origin, where they meet together, and flourish through 
the efficacy of the one liberal source. There is a prospect now, 
that the salutation of my heart will be wafted to thee, and meet thy 
acceptance, in the renewings of that love which, I humbly trust 
no vicissitudes or future dispensations will ever be suffered to 
diminish. 

I value it as a gift from the hand which is full of blessings, 
and wish to honor it as such. The affectionate part in us 
fabricates a strong resemblance of gospel felloiv ship, but, had we 
no stronger cement than it affords, we could not stand together 
in the unity, through many of those storms and combats with 
which the Christian traveller meets, from within and from 
without." 

Our readers are supposed to be aware that the writer of the 
foregoing letter, had removed to Ireland, and taken charge of 
Clonmell school. The following inscription was worked with 
beautiful neatness on a sampler by the scholars, under her in- 
spection, and sent to America as a memento of their close 
friendship and gospel unity. R, Jones had it framed and hung 
in her chamber. R. J. having spent about a week in Clonmell 
school, the pupils had become much attached to her, so that 
the offering was one of affection on their part, and not merely 
as made to their teacher's friend. 

Clonmell-School 

to 

Rebecca Jones of Philadelphia ; 

On her return from a long and arduous visit to the Churches of the 

People called Quakers 

in Europe ; 

sendeth greeting. 



REBECCA JONES. I77 

After a frequent and sympathetic conflici 

with this her endeared friend, 

and instructive companion ; 

SARAH R. GRUBB, rejoices in HOPE, 

that by the POWER OF OMNIPOTENCE, 

and in the Covenant of Love and Life, 

She is now restored to the bosom of the Church 

in AMERICA, 

and to the precious society of 

her most beloved and constant friend, 

in the Tribulation and Consolation of the Gospel, 

Hannah Cathkall. 



Eleventh Month, 1788. 

Shortly after this, in an open conference between R. J. and 
H. Cathrall, as regarded their future mode of living, the latter 
announced the insufficiency of her health for resuming the 
charge of the school, &c. " My mind," says R. J., "was much 
sunk in the prospect of our separation, and my not being able 
to work for my living as I used to do, nor having enough 
to bear me out without labor. So we retired for the night with 
heavy hearts." We may anticipate, by noting that R. J. took 
lodgings with James Goram, No. 3, Watkins' Alley, on the 
1st of the ensuing Fourth month, H. C. removing to the house 
of her brother. R. J., under that date, notes her '• desire for 
preservation under the close trial of being thus separated. I 
rested poorly, yet was quiet in spirit, believing that I had no 
hand in our separation, and desiring patiently to wait the event." 

Writing 11 mo. 18th. to Samuel Alexander of Needham, 
having related the incidents of the voyage and their preservation 
from damage in the storm, in which the Harmony which 
*' could not have been far distant," was shattered and almost 
wrecked, she says, " For this extraordinary circumstance toge- 
ther with the innumerable, unmerited mercies, in which I 
have been made a sharer, both in your country and my own, 
my soul worships in the deepest prostration before the throne 
of boundless goodness ; adopts the humble inquiry, * What 
shall I render unto thee, oh Lord, for all thy benefits V and 



178 MEMORIALS OF 

desires to walk in gratitude and humility all the days of my 
life." After giving information on various points, she thus 
concludes : — " Thy kind epistle which reached me before 
I embarked, I esteem as a fresh proof of thy brotherly remem- 
brance, and that thou art desirous of pursuing the one thing 
needful. May thy labor be crowned with success, and thy re- 
signation to the despicable epithet o^ fool, introduce thee wor- 
thily among those wise who are ' to shine as the brightness ol 
the firmament,' and as ' the stars for ever and ever.' When 
I look towards the honest. hearted living members in your land, 
I rejoice in feeling the current of precious unity flow even from 
this, and am still fervently engaged in spirit for the restora- 
tion of all the dispersed, scattered, and captivated children 
through the various tribes in our Israel. May the Most High 
hasten the day in which this great and good work will be effected, 
to the praise of his own adorable Name and Power, and that 
without instrumental help. 

It was a great thing to part with my beloved friend and pre- 
cious companion C. Hustler, yet it was made more easy than 
we could have expected,- — and so have other hard things thro' 
the virtue of that love and life without the sensible enjoyment 
of which there is nothing worth desiring to live for. Farewell 
dear Samuel—" holdfast that which thou hast received — let no 
man take thy crown." 

I remain in christian sympathy thy assured friend. 




In accordance with the noble determination of Saul of Tarsus 
that he would " make his ministry without charge," and " with 
his own hands minister to his wants," — our friend, not finding 
it expedient to resume her school, commenced a shop, which 
was kept in her parlor, (the articles being deposited in closets 
and drawers, so as to be entirely out of sight.) She imported 
gloves, shawls, kerchiefs, some articles of dry goods and 
trimmings, and various articles, costly and of superior quality, 



REBECCA JONES. I79 

many of which could be obtained no where else in Philadelphia. 
In the selection and importation, she received the willing aid of 
her friends on both sides of the Atlantic ; and thus her bus- 
iness which was never allowed to interfere with her religious 
duties and" engagements, was made to her the means of '* pro- 
viding things honest in the sight of all men." 

" Twelfth month 27th. Sixth day.— Was at Philadelphia 
Monthly Meeting. Job Scott and Daniel Aldrich had the chief 
service. It was a good meeting. At its close I had a short 
opportunity with Warner Mifflin, and desired him to let patience 
have its perfect work." 



R. Jones to Joseph Williams. 

Philadelphia, 12th mo. 16th, 1788. 

Dear friend Jos, Williams, — Before this reaches thee, thou 
wilt have heard, that through the tender mercies of ,the Most 
High, I am safely arrived in this, my native city, which I was 
favored to reach two days before our Yearly Meeting ended ; 
thereby having an opportunity of seeing my beloved friends 
from different parts of the country. They received me cordial- 
ly, and we were helped together to set up our " Ebenezer " with 
thanksgiving and praise to our Almighty Helper and everlasting 
Friend. My beloved companion, H. C, was almost overset on 
my approach to her. I was favored with a good passage on 
the whole ; a very kind captain, and good company. But what 
calls for the deepest thankfulness, is, that even whilst we were 
much tossed with a tempest, about a week before we arrived, 
my mind was preserved under the calming influences of soul- 
solacing peace, under which I met my dear friends, and, through 
boundless mercy, it has been the covering of my spirit by day 
and by night since. 

And now, my care and desire is, that I may be preserved 
from lavishing away the precious sheaf, which has been vouch- 



180 MEMORIALS OF 

safed me as a reward : a reward far beyond my deserts, and more 
than adequate to my feeble endeavors in your land and in Great 
Britain. Moreover, my heart breathes after an increase of ability 
to "walk humbly with my God," who hath so marvellously con- 
descended to my weak and low estate, having been " a very 
present help in every needful time," and having accepted the dedi- 
cation of my heart in my late services, and who is now and forever 
worthy to receive the praise of His own works ! May the honest 
and disinterested labors of love, which have, of later time, been be- 
stowed by the Lord's messengers upon the different parts of his 
vineyard, be productive of fruits, answerable to His gracious de- 
sign ! May the living members of the church in your land in- 
crease in the holy increase of God ! May the careless and 
lukewarm professors be quickened and made alive in the day- 
time, and repent and do their first works ! May the camp be 
cleansed from the accursed thing ! that so Israel may no more 
turn backward in the day of battle. And mayest thou, dear Jo- 
seph, improve thy time and thy talent faithfully, and with my 
poor soul, witness the answer of " well done ! " at last. 

I feel near sympathy with thee, whilst writing ; I know the 
humble diffidence of thy spirit ; but be honest, be vigilant, I be- 
seech thee ; then, the greater the cross, the weightier will thy 
crown be ! Salute, for me, dear E. Pike ; I think of her as a 
mother in Israel, worthy of double honor. Let thy dear wife 
and children know I remember them with a heart replenished 
with love, and fervent desire for their welfare in time and in 
eternity. * * * * * * 

Do write to me soon, and let me hear if the " lilies grow and 
the pomegranates flourish " in your nation. 

I am entering into a larger field of sorrow and exercise in my 
own land, where, though I find a faithful, upright^hearted num- 
ber, there are multitudes of a different description amongst the 
professors of truth, some of whom, will assuredly be "corrected 
by their own folly, and be rep.ro ved by their own backslidings," 
sooner or later. ***** 

In reviewing the past, with Friends in your Island and Great 



REBECCA JONES. Igl 

Britain, I feel the precious unity of the one everlasting covenant, 
in which I can in spirit, though absent in body, salute, sympa- 
thise, and rejoice with the true born children of our Heavenly 
Father, and say, " Fear not little flock, it is your Father's good 
pleasure to give you the Kingdom ! " Amongst these thou my 
dear friend, with thy faithful partner hast often been brought 
nearly into view, feehng tenderly solicitous for your welfare in 
every way ; and I trust, though finally separated in this state of 
existence, we may, through boundless goodness, meet at last 
where we can unite in the ceaseless song, " Great and marvel- 
lous are thy works, Lord God Almighty ; just and true are thy 
ways, thou King of Saints !" * * * * 

Thy assured, obliged, and affectionate friend, 




" 1789. Fifth month 4th.— Was at our Quarterly Meeting, 
where I mentioned an exercise for going to the Y. M. of Flush- 
ing and Rhode Island. Friends gave leave for mentioning my 
concern to the Monthly Meeting." 

On the 2d of Sixth month, a certificate was granted by her 
Monthly Meeting, signed by sixty-four Friends, in conformity 
with the prospect above noted. Fifth month 20th, she writes : 

" About this time, I suppose Friends will be going towards 
the Yearly Meeting of London, where, if I had the wings of a 
dove, I should be tempted to join the solemn assembly ; but as 
this is altogether impossible, in hody^ I am thankful in believing, 
I shall in s'pirit be wafted there, to join the intercession with a 
faithful number, to the Father of mercies, for His continued 
help, preservation, and guidance in the weighty service of that 
meeting." ****** 

It is interesting in this connection, to observe the reciproca- 
tion of feeling on the part of her transatlantic sisters in the as- 
sembly to which her mind was thus turned, as expressed in the 
Epistle addressed by the Women's Y. Meetingof London, Sixth 

16 



182 MExMORIALS OF 

month, 1789, to their Friends in Philadelphia. " We rejoice," 
say they, " in the extension of Divine favor vouchsafed to you, 
our beloved sisters, in your annual assembly, and that our en- 
deared friend Rebecca Jones, with other gospel messengers who 
lately visited this land, were conducted in the aboundings of 
peace, to their native country. We are now favored with the 
company of our beloved friends John Pemberton, James Thorn- 
ton, and George Dillwyn, with his valuable wife, whose ser- 
vices and gospel labors have been truly acceptable to Friends 
and others, where their lot has been cast." 

Of this journey to New England, neither her notes nor her 
numerous letters (two excepted) have been discovered. Hence 
we can give the reader no connected details. An endorsement 
upon her certificate signed on behalf of N. England Y. Meeting, 
states that " her Gospel labors, exemplary conduct and con- 
versation, have been much to our edification and comfort." And 
a very full minute, of similar purport, records her attendance at 
Sandwich Quarterly Meeting at Nantucket, the 30th of Sixth 
and 1st of 7th months. She had a meeting with a few Indians 
and Negroes on this Island, forty-five innumber, alsoone with six 
hundred young females, and one with about four hundred young 
men and lads. " Our Friends," she says, " were very indus- 
trious in spreading the notice, and seemed well satisfied with 
them all. I have great cause to be humbly thankful that I gave 
up to the pointings of the great Master, and that he was pleased 
for his own Name's sake, to vouchsafe a portion of best help." 

This service appears for a long time to have been in antici- 
pation, as in a letter to C. Hustler, dated 5th of Tenth month, 
she says : " I have taken part of a house in a valuable family, 
wliere I am well contented, but I do not expect to be allowed long 
to enjoy my pleasing retirement. New England and Long Island 
rise full in my view. Thou mayst recollect that I used to tell 
thee those parts were yet to be visited. AVell, I serve a gracious 
Master, who provided all things necessary in my late journey, 
and I still trust in his providential care." 

Third month, 1789. — Her young friend. Dr. Isaac Cathrall, 



REBECCA JONES. 183 

(to whose skill and remarkable assiduity and tender attention, 
she was, some years subsequently, as will be seen, indebted, un- 
der Providence, for her life,) being about to sail for the East In- 
dies, she addressed to him an affectionate epistle. " I wish to 
suggest by these few lines," she writes, " the warm and tender 
desire of my heart for thee, that, as thou hast hitherto been, 
through the tender care of the Most High (which is the arm of 
salvation) preserved from falling into temptation to gross evils ; 
and as thou art no stranger to the principle of Divine Grace, 
thou raayst now stand upon thy guard, and acquit thyself with 
such a degree of uprightness and conformity to thy profession, 
to the sincere desire of thy well wishing friends, and to thy 
own solid and better judgment, as that, on a serious retrospec- 
tion, thy own heart may not reproach, thee as long as thou liv- 
est. Be especially careful of thy company both on shipboard 
and on shore. If thou beginnest right, it will be more easy for 
thee to keep so. To find thou dost so will give me real satis- 
faction. My heart loves thee, and my best wishes attend thee. 
May St thou be favored with a desire after retirement — (on first 
days thou mayst find it in thy berth) and know that power near 
thee which is greater than * the noise of many waters, yea than 
the mighty waves of the sea.' Believe me when I say that if 
thou seekest the Lord he will be found of thee, and will do more 
for thee than all things without him." 

8th Mo. 25th. — She attended Quarterly Meeting at Haddon- 
field, and was largely engaged, exhorting friends to beat their 
plowshares into swords, and their pruning hooks into spears, 
and to make war in righteousness : — thus seeking to arouse 
those who, in the spirit of this world, were taking their rest and 
laying up their treasure in sublunary things. D. Offley fol- 
lowed in supplication. 



Ib4 MEMORIALS OF 



R. J. TO Joseph Williams. 

Philadelphia^ lOth mo. 21st, 1789. 

Beloved Joseph, *' * 

Yesterday about noon arrived our dear M. Ridgway and Jane 
Watson, after an easy passage without a storm, though longer 
than some others, (I think ten weeks.) I had been, by a hurt 
received from a fall, and an epidemic cold, confined for seven- 
teen days mostly to my chamber, and had that morning just 
made out to crawl to our meeting, but on hearing of their arrival, 
and John Pemberton (at whose house they quarter) sending his 
carriage for my dear H. Cathrall and self, we went to see them, 
and truly our joy and greeting were mutual. They were calm, 
cheerful, and very well. O, that they may be as kindly cared 
for, every way, and helped along as I was in your land, is my 
desire. I often think you have set us in America a good and 
nohle example, in your provision for such poor pilgrims, and I 
do hope Friends here will not be deficient towards these worthy 
handmaids of the Lord. * * * 

Thy last, dated 9th of Seventh month, hints the low, deserted 
state of thy mind, like a pelican in the wilderness, and striving 
to wear thy sackcloth covered, &c. Yet I felt, whilst reading 
thy bemoanings, my mind meet thee in thy tried stoppings, and 
hail thee as a fellow probationer, with affectionate breathings, 
that our confidence may not be allowed to fail us in Him who hath 
said, " I will not fail thee nor forsake thee." I do not marvel 
that thou and I are more deeply plunged than some others ; we 
are jealous of ourselves, and it is good to be so ; and we are, I 
humbly hope, jealous of that honor, which at times we desire 
may be advanced over all, however we may be thereby abased 
and humbled. Ah, dear Joseph, there is plenty of company when 
the triumphant song of hosannah is uttered ! but alas, v^ry ^q\w, 
who are willing to visit and abide at Calvary ! Flesh and 
blood does not like it, it wants a more pleasant way. But let us 
keep near to him in whom we have believed, and be wilhng to 



REBECCA JONES. 185 

visit his precious seed, though it be in prison and to death ; for 
to those who herein are faithful, the promise is, " I will give thee 
a crown of life." 

And still, Ireland is visited and revisited by the servants ! 
May the labor bestowed be productive of some profitable increase. 
I am glad my dear friend Samuel Smith is thy guest ; I hope he 
will experience, as I did under thy roof, that the Son of Peace 
dwells there ; thou mayest interrogate him as thou pleasest re- 
specting me and my present situation. I note thy sundry intel- 
ligence, and am obliged by thy continuing willing to give me a 
hint of matters and things interesting amongst you. 

Our dear friends who have lately visited your land are, I be- 
lieve, all well, except W. Matthews, who seems in declining 
health. S. Emlen moving about as usual, and sometimes grum- 
bling at himself for coming home so soon. * * 
* * * * * * , * 

In the 12th month of this year she was severely ill. During 
her confinement the precious reward of true peace was mercifully 
continued to her, and her mind was stayed upon her never fail- 
ing Friend, with desires for increased purification and fitness for 
the exchange of the " earthly house" for the building " not made 
with hands, eternal in the heavens. 

To C. Hustler she writes, 3d mo. 10th, 1790. f' We have had 
the company of the female Hibernians" (M. Ridgway and Jane 
Watson) '' in this city since their arrival (except a small excur- 
sion for a few days to Burlington). They labor faithfully and 
zealously for our good, in public, and privately. They have 
finished an arduous and acceptable visit to the families of the 
middle Monthly Meeting (about three hundred) and are nearly 
thro' a like visit to Pine street Monthly Meeting. This they 
expect to complete by the general spring meeting (the last 1st 
day in this Month). Their services among us, (particularly in 
our large first day evening meetings, composed often of more 
than two thousand people) are very acceptable. Dear M. R. is 
a great example as well as a great minister, and her faithful 
armorbearer Jane Watson keeps her close company. May this 

IG* 



1S6 MEMORIALS OF 

renewed visitation be blessed to us ! May we rightly prize it and 
improve under it i else there is room to fear, that it will be an 
addition to that weight of condemnation which too many of the 
professors of Truth are already under. These dear women 
have been divers times at my habitation, and appear pleased with 
my visits to them, which are as frequent as my health and en- 
gagements will allow, they being near half a mile from my 
house. M. R. wishes to have me with them at least every first 
'lay. 

' was last Second day in our Morning Meeting, so dipped into 
-sympathy with our two brethren now in England, especially our 
dear George Dillwyn, that I told friends how I felt, and that I 
did believe the language of their spirits was unto us, as form.erly 
uttered, " Brethren pray for us, that the word of the Lord may 
have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you." It 
had a baptizing effect on the meeting, and several, after it broke 
up, said they had also been in like manner in company with 
those two friends. 

John Pemberton is now with S. Emlen and others waiting on 
Congress on behalf of the oppressed Africans." 

In a letter to Mary, wife of Joseph Gurney Bevan, dated 4th 
month 15th, after referring to her frequent indisposition during 
the late winter, which frequently confined her for weeks at a 
time, she says, " I am often with you in spirit, and strong in 
desire that you may encourage each other to do all the good 
you can, while your faculties are continued bright and lively. I 
feel mine on the decay, and am secretly comforted in believing 
that I was divinely helped to discharge, in the right time, the 
very heavy debt to your land, under which I had long waded. 
To the Lord alone be the praise ! His time, dear M., is the only 
right time, t frequently see thy cousin Samuel Powell Grif- 
fitts. He is in good repute here, both as a physician and as 
a member of our society." 

A visit which she paid to Maryland, of which no particulars 
are preserved, is believed to have been performed in the Spring 
or early in the summer of this year. The summer was chiefly 



REBECCA JONES. 187 

filled up in attending meetings near Philadelphia, as she found 
herself drawn forth, different friends alternately taking her in 
their carriages. At one of these meetings, on the 30th of 9th 
month, she was largely engaged in enforcing the duty of fre- 
quently reading the holy Scriptures in families, and also of 
supplying poor friends with them. This concern, she was, on 
suitable occasions, engaged to impress upon her fellow proba- 
tioners. And surely those who believe in the Divine origin of 
the sacred volume, and that its contents are given by " the only 
wise God," for our instruction, should be careful not to be de- 
terred by indolence, by the cares of life, or by any subtle pre- 
sentation of the Tempter, from a diligent and frequent perusal 
thereof. 



R. Jones to Esther Tuke. 

Philadelphia, lOih month SOth, 1790. 

My soul bows in deep abasement, in consideration of the little 
fruit as yet brought forth in my vineyard, in return to that gra- 
cious Being, who, to magnify his own praise, hath done mar- 
vellously for me, a poor, unworthy creature. My bodily health 
is confirmed; he hath made ample provision for this tabernacle; 
yea, he hath condescended to make up every deficiency for his 
mercies' sake ! What then shall, or can I render. Nothing 
have I of my own ! All is of and from his ow?i inexhaustible 
source, who hath determined that " no flesh shall glory in his 
presence." 

Thou hast, doubtless, heard that I have shaken my hands 
from the gain of school-keeping ; though, by the way, I may 
tell thee, my present gain is not so delicious, nor do I feel so 
every way complete, as when my uncontrolled sway was love, 
among my numerous tribe of varied dispositions, circumstances, 
and ages. But as I cannot be ground over again, nor renew my 



188 MEMORIALS OF 

youthful sight and other requisites for the service, I endeavor 
after contentment in my present situation, and hope that I shall 
wind up my accounts as to worldly matters, without even the 
shadow of bankruptcy. If my more solemn and impori-ant ac- 
count prove as fairly stated and as fully clear, then shall I, in 
an advancing awful hour, have nothing to do but to die. Oh, 
may this, my dear friend, be our joyous condition at last, (what- 
ever shall attend us in time,) is the breathing cry of my whole 
heart ! On this ground, I feel thy spirit meets me. I rejoice 
in thy company, even now, 3000 miles distant. Hail, fellow- 
traveller, then ! We are near the journey's end; and we have 
nothing to rely upon but boundless mercy and unfailing good- 
ness, of which we Mve often been made joint partakers, and 
which will never be withheld from us, if we patiently continue 
under the holy harness, and cleave steadfastly to the law and 
to the testimony. 

I am glad thoa wast enabled to attend your late Yearly 
Meeting. I thought I felt thee and our dear C. Hustler, there, 
united like old standard bearers ; for, I may tell thee, that how- 
ever desirous I might be, at many other times, to keep mind and 
body together, I am not able to do it at the time of your general 
assembly. My spirit wings its flight — I see you collectively in 
Devonshire House — I run to Plough Court, Bartholomew Close, 
Duke street. Lamb's Conduit street, and other places, — and sa- 
lute, first one, and then another, of those whom I dearly love. 
I am refreshed with these ideal excursions, and have a senti- 
ment of my own about such visits, which is strengthened by thy 
saying, that I was " much in thy remembrance." Thy account 
of that meeting is very descriptive of our late annual solemnity, 
where, to our comfort, we had dear M. Ridgway and Jane 
Watson. These brave soldiers are greatly beloved and hon- 
ored, both by the Master and by their fellow servants. Soon 
after the meeting, they went, with dear J. Pemberton, S. Emlen, 
&c., into Maryland. 

I am pleased to find that you are likely to have a more con- 
venient house for the Yearly Meeting, and that thou lovest my 



REBECCA JONES. jgg 

faithful brother, S. Smith. I hope he will visit both my nest 
at York and at Undercliffe, else I shall call him to account. I 
shall not be sorry to hear that he is obliged to visit the sprout- 
ing seed in Scotland. Tell him so with my love. 

Dear G. and S. Dillwyn, and R. and S. Grubb, wrote to me 
from Amsterdam, to my comfort. Surely their sheaves will be 
very large, for they do not " sow sp§iringly." 



CHAPTER VIII. 

1791. 

Decease of John Hustler and of Sarah R. Grubb. — Letters — Visits 
Long Island, &c. 

1st Mo. 27th, 1791. She thus notices the decease of John 
Hustler. — " I feel near sympathy with my dear companion and 
sweet-fellow traveller, C. Hustler, on hearing of the departure 
of her beloved husband. He was a man of great talents, much 
tender sensibility, and of a noble spirit. He will be missed by 
the public — by the church — and by his own amiable family. 
We pass away, one after another, experiencing the verity of 
the Divine decree, Hhey shall perish\ May we who are suffered 
to survive a little longer, obtain through our love and obedience 
to the Holy Shepherd, that enriching confidence, which will 
enable us to say, * but thou remainest.' And when we 
pass through " the valley of the shadow of death," if favored 
to feel Him near us, we shall * fear no evil ;' but having been 
guided by His counsel, be received into His glory." 

On the same day, in a letter to C. Hustler, after expression 

of tender sympathy, she adds — " Thou knowest, my dear C , 

from whence soul sustaining help is derived. Thou hast often 
been permitted to draw near to it, and thou art fully acquainted 
with its healing virtue. Mayst thou now, under this close con- 



190 MEMORIALS OF 

flict, for thy own sake, and for the sake of thy dear children 
and other relatives, and for an example to others when intro- 
duced into the like path of sorrow, be strengthened to say, thy 

will be done — yea, 

" Confess aloud with holy Job, and say 

The Lord, who gave, hath right to take away." 

A letter from George Dillwyn to R. Jones mentioning the de- 
cease (in her 35th year) of Sarah Grubb, (with whom he had 
been associated in recent religious service on the continent) says, 
" She closed the relation which she gave to the Quarterly Meeting 
of Cork, of our mission to the Continent, with a declaration of 
her belief that altho' we had done little, the Lord was doing 
much in the Earth : concluding with these words ' My day's 
work seems almost accomplished, and I shall adopt this lan- 
guage of scripture. Return unto thy rest, oh my soul, for the 
Lord hath dealt bountifully with thee.' The last expressions 
she was heard to utter (a little before her exit) were those of her 
dear Lord, My peace Heave with you. Thus fell a valiant in 
the church militant, whose endowments and dedication are 
equalled by few of the present generation, and to whose memo- 
ry, I believe, as general a tribute of tears has been paid, as to 
any person with whom I was ever acquainted." 

In writing to C. Hustler, 4Mo. 29th, 1791, after referring to 
the peaceful exit of John Hustler, she thus continues : 

" I trust your minds are, with mine, fully persuaded, that with 
him, the end, being happy, crowned all. And this must be 
cause of thanksgiving and praise to our great and gracious 
helper, who, I perceive, hath also been with you, and remains 
to be thy comfort and support, my ever dear friend. 

" I have from many kind friends received accounts of the last 
illness and death of our dear Sarah R. Grubb who also hath 
left this vale of tears for an eternal resting place in the abodes 
of peace and felicity. May the loss be supplied to the militant 
church through the faithfulness of her visible members, is my 
fervent prayer \ 

" 1 expect divers friends are preparing to go up to the Gene- 



REBECCA JONES. 191 

ral Assembly, which I pray may be a ' feast of holy convoca- 
tion' — I hope thou wilt be strengthened to take thy proper stand 
there, and ' do valiantly' — I am also preparing for a journey to 
Long island, where I expect to meet our noble warriors Mary 
Ridgway and Jane Watson* Dear Samuel Emlen is now with 
them at Rah way — and John Pemberton and wife also talk of 
getting to the Yearly Meeting to be held next month at West- 
bury. Our ancient friend Robert Willis was interred about 
twelve days ago, and we have, within a few months, been strip- 
ped by death of divers valuable friends, both in city and country. 
Thus we are all passing away, from time to an awful eternity." 

In retrospect of the visit to Long Island, her prospect of 
which is above alluded to, she notes, 11th Mo. 15th., "Thro' 
the- continuance of the heavenly Shepherd's care, I have been 
helped in the performance of some religious services on Long 
Island, New York, &c. and had the company of our dear Rebecca 
Wright therein ; also to some meetings in New Jersey, &c. I 
felt on my return the incomes of sweet peace, for which I desire 
to continue thankful to the great Author of all good." About 
the same date she says, " I received a letter from dear Jane 
Watson from New York, where she and dear Mary are engaged 
in the arduous service of cross ploughing the field over which 
dear Rebecca Wright and I hastened last summer : i. e. visiting 
families." In this journey R. J. attended the half Year's Meet- 
ing and most of the meetings on Long Island, and visited all the 
families of Friends in the city of New York. Arriving at her 
home 6Mo. 21st, she notes her attendance of Yearly, Monthly, 
Preparative and nine particular meetings, and having visited 
eighty families and travelled three hundred and ten miles — " in 
all which, being mercifully supported, and sensible that I am still 
a poor weak creature, my soul humbly worships, and ascribes 
praise and thanksgiving to the Lord God and the Lamb, now 
and forever worthy — Amen — Amen !" 

In her memoranda respecting New York Yearly Meeting, we 
note, that on the 31st of 5th Mo., " was a very favored season, 
and, under a weighty exercise, Friends we were named to visit 



192 MEMORIALS OF 

the Quarterly Meetings, and assist there in inspecting the neces- 
sities of the poor with respect to Bibles SfC^ It appears that R. 
Jones and Jane Watson went into the men's meeting with this 
concern, where it was readily agreed to, and at a later sitting a 
committee of men was appointed to join their sisters in this 
truly christian work. 

10th month 14th, she notes — " I hear that the Pigou, with 
George and Sarah. Dillwyn, and Samuel Smith on board, is in 
the river" — and on the same day, she adds, " Soon after penn- 
ing the above, our dear friends arrived. They look well every 
way, being, I trust, sweet and peaceful in their spirits. We 
met on the wharf; it was a joyously melting season, and I waited 
on theni to their respective lodgings. Friends, generally, re- 
joiced to see them, and I am truly thankful to the Father of 
mercies for this renewed favor, vouchsafed to them and us. 
Blessed be his worthy name now and forever." 

George Dillwyn, in a letter to Joseph Gurney Bevan, thus 
refers to their landing, and to their reception by R. Jones, &c. 
" We landed in the midst of a considerable number of our rela- 
tives, friends and acquaintance, who waited to receive us. The 
first we discovered on the wharf, from the quarter deck, when 
we dropped anchor, were James Pemberton and Rebecca Jones, 
just coming down. Two or three days before, they had heard 
of the Pigou's being in the river ; and Rebecca was prompted by 
several, the day before we arrived, to go down to the wharf and 
look out for us, but she felt no inclination then to comply, but, 
(mark the woman!) on this day, dining at James Pemberton's, 
the cloth was scarcely removed, when she exclaimed, ' Now 
Phebe, let's get on our cloaks and bonnets, and set off — we'll go 
from wharf to wharf till we meet them.' And a precious meet- 
ing it was ! — for which the Janguage of humble, silent praise 
rose, through much tenderness of spirit, to the gracious Pre- 
server of men, the Leader forth and rereward of his people." 

This interesting scene is well described by herself in the fol- 
lowing letters. 



REBECCA JONES. I93 

R. Jones to Mary Bevan. 

Philadelphia, lOth month 2Slh, 1791. 

" Our dear friends G. and S. Dillwyn, and S. Smith, landed 
in this city last 6th day (the 14th inst.,) about 3 o'clock, P. M., 
amidst a great number of friends and others, on the wharf. As 
it happened, my friend Phebe Pemberton and self were the only 
females who knew of the ship'*? noraing to an anchor timely for 
going down to the wharf. Thou ..cxn conceive better than I can 
express, how we all felt. Tears of joy and thankfulness flowed 
plenteously. I went with G. and S., first to their cousin James 
Smith's, where was Susan Dillwyn. We next proceeded to 
Sarah Dillwyn's sister, Margaret Morris', where they dropped 
anchor, and all their connexions in the city soon collected. 
The scene was sweetly affecting. Lastly, I introduced them to 
the chamber of their disconsolate sister Moore, who was com- 
posed on the occasion. Here we all sat down in solemn silence, 
and together were enabled to set up our Ebenezer in our own 
land, sensible that ' the Lord had helped us.' 

So, after leaving them all together, (this I thought right to do) 
I proceeded to the house of my old acquaintance and neighbor, 
S. Smith, where, after a dish of tea, the like experience became 
ours. I asked him divers questions, the first of which (about 
friends,) was after my kind friends J. G. and M. Bevan, of whom 
he gave me a comforting account. The particular trials on their 
passage, thou wilt, I have no doubt, have from themselves. They 
look particularly well, and appear to be in possession of the re- 
ward for faithfulness." * * * 

11th month 3d, she writes to Esther Tuke, — 

" We received our dear friends G. and S. Dillwyn, and 
S. Smith joyfully, on the 14th ultimo. Taking J. and P. Pem- 
berton with me, I hastened to the wharf, against which the Pigou 
anchored, and we embraced each other amidst a concourse of 
friends and others, in open daylight, with tears of thankful 
rejoicing. 



X94 MEMORIALS OF 

Among all my friends who were at your Yearly Meeting, not 
one thought of sending me transcripts of the memorials read 
there, concerning my late dear companion Sarah R. Grubb, but 
that prince of a man, Wm. Rotch. They reached my hand 
in our Yearly Meeting week, and I thought myself warranted in 
offering them for reading to our Women's Yearly Meeting. 
That meeting appointed a committee to inspect the contents, 
(which should always be done if the subject be not specially ad- 
dressed to them) who reported their opinion that they might be 
usefully introduced ; so they were audibly and affectingly read 
by my H. Cathrall, who is clerk, and had a seasoning tender- 
ing effect on the minds of friends who were desired to " go and 
do likewise."* I may say of a truth, " She being dead, yet 
speaketh ;" and scarce a day passes but I am in secret sweet 
converse and communion of soul with her sanctified and exalted 
spirit. * * Her memory will long live in my heart, and 
amongst " the just" will be blessed to many in different 
lands, who were acquainted with her pious, upright example of 
humble, unreserved dedication of body, soul and spirit to the 
service of that God, whom to obey and follow in all things, was 
her meat and drink — yea, her all in all, unto the end." 



R. J. TO C. Hustler. 

Wth month 15th, 1791. 

# * * * 

Our friends Samuel Smith and George and Sarah Dillwyn, 
seem peacefully at home, and are in good health. George and 
Sarah staid but a few days in the city, and then went to their 
beloved retreat, Burlington. Samuel Smith being my near 

*0n the reading, in this meeting, of the London epistle, in which men- 
tion was made of the decease of Sarah Grubb, R. Jones stated that she 
had in possession the memorials alluded to, and offered them, as men- 
tioned above. 



REBECCA JONES. I95 

neighbor, we have had divers pleasant interviews, and much 
agreeable conversation about thee and thine, and divers other 
dear friends in your nation, and I have the satisfaction to find 
that he and I harmonize in sentiment on most subjects that have 
occurred. But what dost thou think of our Mary Bevan and 
Deborah Townsend's comparison ? They both, by letter, ex- 
press their having found a striking similarity of voice, manner 
and disposition in Samuel Smith to their friend R. Jones. At 
which I greatly wonder — however, it is no disparagement to the 
latter, and I hope S. Smith's feelings will not be hurt thereby, 
for he is a brother beloved of mine. 

I have a choice letter from dear Esther Tuke. She tells me 
they are compiling for the press our dear S. Grubb's notes, &c., 
and requests extracts from her letters to me, in making which, 
I propose, if I am spared, engaging the evenings of this winter. 
Oh, what a loss to the Church, is her removal ! Yet I believe 
it is in Wisdom and mercy unutterable." 

R. Jones, in compliance with the request conveyed by Esther 
Tuke, made copious extracts from the numerous letters of S. 
Grubb to herself, and to H. Cathrall, (which are now before the 
compiler) but it seems that they were not prepared in time to be 
used in the highly interesting and instructive account which has 
long been valued as among those standard works, without which 
the library of a Friend would be incomplete. 

The following passages from a letter to Martha Routh, bring 
so vividly to remembrance, the pleasant, familiar conversational 
vein of the subject of these memoirs, that those who knew her 
may almost fancy her before them. The " English hat," a large 
beaver, with its broad brim, and crown about half an inch in 
height, is well remembered by the compiler. Such an appendage 
to the head of one of our female ministers, would, in this day, 
make quite a sensation. 

Philadelphia, 11th month 5th, 1791. 
Beloved friend, Martha Roiith, — Thy kind letter, by my old 
friend and near neighbor, Samuel Smith, has laid me under suf- 



196 MEMORIALS OF 

ficient obligation, without the addition of a neiv English hat. 
Why, dear woman, I can never compensate for former marks 
of thy sisterly attention, and thou must needs increase the debt ! 
So thou must look for thy gain from the right quarter, and then 
thou wilt have thy reward, with suitable interest. 

Leave off complimenting my tongue and hand, I entreat thee ; 
for the first never came up to thine, and the latter, through 
failure of eyesight,. is in danger of forgetting its old cunning, I 
do assure thee. And yet, with thanks to Him who is for ever 
worthy, I may say, that at times my heart is helped in the in- 
diting way — whether all the matter be good or only insipid, I 
must leave — and in it, just now, a sisterly salutation springs, 
dear Martha to thee. Having heard that thy worthy aunt, S. 
T., had entered into her rest, oh that thou mayest be helped to 
come up in her footsteps, and be divinely qualified to turn many 
to righteousness, through the efficacy of the heavenly gift which 
thou hast received, (let it turn whithersoever the great and all 
wise Giver shall see meet,) that, in the evening of thy day, peace 
and comfort may be thy crown of rejoicing, and thy glorious 
arrangement be forever among the stars. 

I often feel like a soldier put upon half pay, and not at all fit 
for great exploits. And yet, the little bread and water graciously 
dispensed from Royal bounty, keep the soul alive in famine, and 
cut off" the occasion for distrust in that mercy and goodness 
which have followed me all the days of my life. May I but be 
counted worthy of this provision and succor unto the end ! is all 
a poor unworthy creature can or dare to ask ; and if these be in 
boundless mercy granted, I am, and shall be, with the depriva- 
tion of every temporal good, thankfully content. 

It comforts me to hear thee express thyself with so much 
genuine affection, concerning that beloved disciple, our dear 
Christiana Hustler. Her sorrows have oft been concealed under 
a meek and pleasant countenance, and I trust the holy staff* will 
be her support, now in her declining years 

As to the accounts of your late Yearly Meeting, except what 
I felt at the time it was held, I am left by all who have written 



REBECCA JONES. I97 

me, saying, as thou dost, that there is expectation of my being 
furnished " by a more able hand." But where is it? And yet, 
thou hast done more than any other, for which I am thy obliged 
friend. * * 

Thou wilt like to know that Mary Ridgway and Jane Watson 
are now at New York, cross-plowing that field, after thy friends, 
Rebecca Wright and R. Jones. We visited all the families in 
that city, last Sixth month, together, on our return from Long 
Island, where we had attended that Yearly Meeting, and most 
of the meetings ; and we returned home in as hot a spell of 
weather as I ever remember. But we were so brisk and lively 
that we walked about without our staves. 

After relating an accident to R. Wright, who, she says, " after 
having driven safely so many thousands of miles in Europe and 
America, separated from her dear Nathan, made out to overturn 
herself in a chaise, near her own home, and he with her, on 
horseback" — R. J. adds : " In our late partnership journey, thou 
wast frequently the subject of our conversation, in that love 
which many waters cannot quench ; and if thy Master should 
commission thee to this continent, whilst these two Rebeccas are 
in the body, thou mayest be assured of a couple of affectionate 
and v/ell wishing Friends, to hail thee into our field of arduous 
labor — the Master of which has dispensed unto us the penny, 
and commanded us to " be content with our wages." * * * 
My love is to thy beloved husband, who, I desire, may continue 
to believe, when the voice which formerly separated unto the 
Lord, Barnabas and Saul, is heard commanding the surrender 
of his second self to the Lord's service, that his reward will also 
be in proportion to the acquiescence of his will to the divine call, 
wherever it may lead. With this desire, and with dear love, I 
conclude, thy poor little afiectionate sister, R. Jones. 

She continued to board with James Goram till the year 1792, 
when having concluded to rent a house, she went to look at one 
which was to let in Brooke's court. Calling at the adjoining 
house for the key, she found it to be occupied by a woman who 

17* 



198 MEMORIALS OF 

had been her next neighbor in Drinker's alley, but had fled with 
her husband, who was in the British interest, to Canada, during 
the revolutionary war. Their exclamations of surprise and 
pleasure were mutual, and this decided R. J.'s choice of a resi- 
dence. 

On the decease of William Mathews, his widow communi- 
cated to R. J., the following message, which was taken verbatim 
from his lips. She accordingly forwarded it to C. Hustler, who 
had been associated with her and W. Mathews, in various jour- 
neys, to be used in her judgment, and especially to be commu- 
nicated to young Friends, to whom W. M. had been " made 
more especially a minister" — a list of some of whom she fur- 
nished. The message is as follows : 

After a time of great weakness, he said — " I wish one of you, 
soon after my change, to write to R. Jones and inform her of it, 
and request her to write to my friends in England, and remem- 
ber my very dear love to them. For to some of them I believe 
this language to be proper — ' In ray bonds and afflictions have 
I begotten you in the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.' Several 
of them, he added, could testify that he had been made instru- 
mental in turning them from darkness to light, and from the 
power of satan, to serve the living God : — that it was the Lord's 
doings, and marvellous in his eyes. He also said that R. J. had 
been more with him than any other fellow-laborer in that land, 
and nearly united in the same exercises and afflictions, and that 
he trusted their labor had been productive of the peaceable fruits 
of righteousness. That his mind had for several days past been 
much and remarkably in Europe, and seemed to pass along 
through almost all the meetings which he attended when there ; 
remembering how it was with him in most of them, — saying 
that he wanted R. J. to write, and communicate to Friends there 
his affectionate regard, and that he had intended to write to her 
himself, but it now seemed too late." 

To S. Rodman, of Nantucket, she writes, 4th month 1st, 
1792 : " The paper respecting the disuse of West India produce, 
has made many converts here. Although I have not yet wholly 



REBECCA JONES. I99 

declined sugar, I do prefer that made from the maple, and have 
procured a keg from my friend Henry Drinker, which answers 
all the purposes of the other, and is clear of the diabolical trade. 

At our spring meeting, dear Samuel Emlen and Sarah Har- 
rison, were set at liberty, by certificates, to visit England. May 
the good hand go with, bear up, and preserve them, through 
heights and depths, is my humble prayer." 

To Joseph Williams she writes a few days subsequently, coin- 
ciding with his views respecting the disuse of West India pro- 
duce, and avowing her preference for maple sugar. John. Hoy- 
land, in a letter dated 4th month 17th, thus intimates the exten- 
sion in England of a similar feeling. " I enclose a newspaper 
containing the debates upon William Wilberforce's motion for 
the abolition of the slave trade, if it be not too black to be read, 
also a late publication respecting sugar, supposed to be written 
by a Friend, upon which I desire thy sentiments. I don't know 
whether I acknowledged the receipt of the dried peaches sent to 
us via Undercliffe :— we have had some tarts made of them, and 
find they retain their acid better than our apples. But dLsFriends 
generally disuse ^iigar, pies seldom make their appearance^ 
and are little in demand. It seems to be apprehended that 
those in that country who conceive themselves interested in the 
continuance of the slave trade, will yet have power to prevent 
an immediate and total aboHtion." 



R. J. TO S. H. 

Philadelphia^ 6th mo. 9th, 1792. 

My dear S. Hustler, — Thy truly acceptable epistle of the 
17th of Second month, came duly by the ship Grange, and is 
now before me. Its contents are all interesting to me, as my 
love and friendship to and for your whole family remain undi- 
minished, and will, I trust, so long as Lam capable of recollec- 



200 MEMORIALS OF 

tion, and with a sense of that mercy and goodness which were 
so signally around about the habitation of my endeared com- 
panion, thy worthy mother, who is a sweet and lively epistle, 
written upon the table of my heart, which I trust will never be 
obliterated, whatever we may each of us have to pass through, 
of an afflictive nature. Salute her for me ; tell her I was sure 
from my feelings, great part of the winter and spring, that she 
was in a poor way,' and if I was within a few days' ride of 
your house, poorly as I have often been myself, I should have 
visited, and helped thee to nurse and cherish her. A widely 
extended deep is now between us as to the outward ! What a 
favor it is, that we can in spirit visit and salute each other, and 
as I have done this morning, say, " Be of good cheer, He that 
hath called us is faithful — He hath promised to be with his own 
to the end of the world !" 

I have frequent conversation with my near neighbor, S. 
Smith ; that S. S. thou thinks so much resembles poor me, 
though by the by / don't think so, or else I might be proud. 
We often talk about you, and his account of thee and some 
others, is what comforts me, and, in some degree, answers my 
expectations. I want to write to B. S. ; she has noticed me 
more in this line than any one of that house ; my love to them 
all. I am sorry to learn that dear E., is so dechning, but she 
having been " diligent in business,"" whilst able, will now reap 
the consolation derived from a sense of having, with great "fer- 
vency of spirit, served the Lord ;" which I trust is also thy be- 
loved mother's enriching experience in times of weakness and 
bodily pain. May we all have an eye to the blessed recom- 
pense of reward ! and not cast away our confidence in the sure 
arm of divine support in times of dejection and discouragement, 
which are often my attendants, but " continue stedfast and im- 
movable, always abounding in the work of the Lord" — that 
when called upon to render up our accounts, we may stand ac- 
quitted in His holy sight, as was the poor woman, concerning 
whom her Lord and master said, " Let her alone, she hath 
done what she could." 



REBECCA JONES. 201 

Say for me, to thy brother William, that as the eldest son of 
the family, I much desire his steady example may tend to dear 
John's preservation, and that they together may grow up in 
their youth, " plants of renown," to the praise of the great and 
good husbandman, who having in a peculiar manner watched 
over, cared for, and many ways blessed you in basket and in 
store, will most assuredly demand the conspicuous fruits of hu- 
mility, gratitude and fear before Him ; and which, if happily 
found with the widow and fatherless, they may with holy con- 
fidence look up in future trials and difficulties, and availingly 
cry, Abba Father, for " in Him the fatherless find mercy." 

And now in the fresh flowing of that pure spring, which was 
often encoui*agingly witnessed to arise for our mutual strength 
and consolation, when we were together, do I salute thee, dear 
child, desiring the Almighty Father, friend and helper of His 
people, may keep and preserve us among His own sheep, and 
finally own us as His, when done with time." 



To Esther Tuke. 

Eleventh month 30th, 1792. 

* * * <' I believe from some peculiar sensations and late 
intimations, that more are preparing for the solemn embassy 
from this to your land. Why are you so slow in your remit- 
tances ? Surely, in due time, we are to reap from your coun- 
try. In the prospect whereof, I desire not to faint, whether I 
may be continued to rejoice in the completion or not. * * * 

I have a letter saying that Richard Reynolds and Priscilla 
Gurney, have openly preached the gospel. May they prosper 
in it and live of it, is my fervent desire. 

In our particular meeting we have divers new appearances in 
the ministry : and among them a mulatto woman, named Han- 
nah Burrows, who has sometimes kneeled, and the meeting has 
risen. In her appearances. Friends savor the gospel." 



202 MEMORIALS OF 

The colored woman above referred to, continued" to speak 
occasionally in meetings to the satisfaction of Friends. A 
Friend who knew her, and who mentions her peaceful death, 
remembers T. Scattergood calling to her, in North Meeting, 
" Raise thy voice, Hannah." 

Fourth month 15th, 1793, in a letter to C. Hustler, she 
says — " I have a prospect of again moving about in that line 
of service which opens as the path of peace ; being likely to 
set off in a few weeks for Long Island and Rhode Island, and 
to have Lydia Hoskins, a choice-spirited young minister, for my 
companion ; also the company of my very near and faithful 
friends, Samuel Smith and wife. In the ship * George,' by which 
this is intended to be sent, our dear friends, George and Sarah 
Dillwyn, and my very particular friend Elizabeth Drinker,* 
have taken their passage. The first two will doubtless have a 
welcome reception by thee ; and the latter will be found a min- 
ister of the Spirit, to whom I wish that the same kind notice 
which was shown to me, when I was on the like errand, may 
be extended, as also to dear Sarah Harrison. Perhaps we may 
not hear so frequently from each other as we have done, by 
reason of age and many infirmities, as well as increasing trou- 
bles amongst you. Be that as it may, I deeply sympathize 
with thee on many accounts ; but, if the Lord be on our side, 
we need not fear what man can do. To him, therefore, — to his 
blessed guidance and protection — do I commit and commend 
thee and thine, my precious Chrissey, with my own poor soul : 
praying that we may be helped so to steer through the troubles 
of lime, as that we may, of His unmerited mercy, find an ever- 
lasting resting place with Him, when time to us shall be no 
more." 

The epistle of Philadelphia Yearly Meeting of Women 
Friends, to the corresponding body in London, issued Ninth 
month, 1793, thus affectionately refers to the Friends mentioned 

* Elizabeth Drinker died in London, Eighth month 10th, 1791. She 
was wife of that honorable elder, Daniel Drinker, and mother to our 
late beloved friend, Abigail Barker. 



REBECCA JONES. 203 

above; and evinces also the readiness on the part of Friends in 
this country, to receive, with cordiality, for the Truth's sake, 
the ministers of Christ, when sent forth as ambassadors for 
him. 

' Your mention of our dear friends, Samuel Emlen, Job 
Scott, and Sarah Harrison's acceptable service with you, is 
truly comfortable ; and we desire that they, with dear George 
Dillwyn and Elizabeth Drinker, may be sustained and strength- 
ened to finish the work which may be assigned them, so as to 
obtain the full reward of peace in the Lord's time. The Friends 
mentioned in your epistle as likely to embark in Truth's ser- 
vice, for this country, are not yet arrived. We hope, when so 
favored, they will be acceptably received, and aided as neces- 
sary, by such as may be continued, willing to entertain strang- 
ers, and to wash the disciples' feet." 

The same epistle thus notices the awful scourge which will 
be more particularly mentioned in the next chapter. 

" Our meeting is unusually small by reason of great sickness and 
contagion in this city — yet divers friends from different Quarterly 
Meetings, having resigned their lives into the Lord's hand, have ven- 
tured in — and their countenances, with the sensible help of their 
spirits, have been witnessed as balm to our minds." 

Fourth month 2.3d, 1793. Our friend was furnished, by 
Northern District Monthly Meeting, with the following certifi- 
cate, addressed " To our Friends and Brethren in the govern- 
ments of New York and New Eno-land." 

o 

" Our beloved sister, Rebecca Jones, having for some time been un- 
der a religious engagement of mind to visit the approaching Yearly 
Meetings on Long Island and Rhode Island, also some other meetings 
in those parts, laid her concern before this meeting, which, obtaining 
our approbation and unity, we hereby certify that she is a Friend well 
approved amongst us; exemplary in life and conversation, and her 
ministry sound and edifying. We therefore affectionately commend 
her to the care and regard of Friends where her lot may be cast, de- 
siring that her labors may, through the Divine blessing, prove to the 
comfort and edification of the church, and her own true peace. We 
salute you in gospel fellowship, and remain 

(Signed by 84 Friends.) Your loving friends." 



204 MEMORIALS OF 

Of this visit, in which she was accompanied by Lydia Hos- 
kins, little record being found, we subjoin the testimony of the 
church. 

The Yearly Meeting held at Westbury, declared, by its en- 
dorsement to her certificate, that " her gospel labors, both in 
the line of the ministry and discipline, have been truly edifying 
and comfortable to us." And a similar minute of New Eng- 
land Yearly Meeting says — " Her company and gospel labors, 
both in the line of the ministry and discipline, have been cor- 
dially acceptable, strengthening, and Comfortable to us." 

At the suggestion of R. Jones, the Women's Yearly Meeting 
held at Westbury in this year made an essay toward a corres- 
pondence with the Women's Y. M. of London, " which," said 
they in their epistle, " if it meet your approbation, we hope and 
trust will, under the divine blessing, tend to our mutual comfort 
and edification." 



Neivport, Rhode Island, 10th of 6th mo., 1793. 

Dear Friend, H. Drinker,— * * * Through the care and 
protection of kind Providence, L. Hoskins and myself have 
been helped thus far in safety on our way. We arrived here, 
after a 40 hours passage, — about twenty in company — in the 
packet from New York, which place we left last Fifth day 
morning, early — the day on which S. R. Fisher was married to 
a precious girl named H. Rodman. The disappointment was 
great, but the marriage was not suspended on that account. 

I expect our friend S. Smith, will give thee all the needful 
intelligence about the Yearly Meeting on Long Island. His 
company would have been agreeable to me here, but he was 
most easy to return from New York. This I also wished for 
myself, and sought for a door of escape, which, not being found, 
I now humbly trust I am where I ought to be, and am in pretty 
good health at the house of our friend Thomas Robinson, whose 
daughter Mary is like to become " a crown" to John Morton. 
They have passed one meeting. 



REBECCA JONES. 205 

P. Yarnall and Elias Hicks, are on their way hither by land, 
and expected this evening. I don't hear of any other strangers 
coming to the yearly meeting. 

I hear that our North Meeting have altered the hour for Meet- 
ing in the afternoon to the 4th, with which I unite, and should 
like to hear that it has answered a good purpose. Please tell 
me whether any account has reached you respecting our dear 
friends in the Pigou, about whom I have been very thoughtful 
during the late succession of easterly winds. 

As I have not any thing very interesting to communicate — 
though our sex are often charged with prolixity, — I shall not 
trouble thee, as E. Tuke says, with " a lengthy speech now," 
but as T do feel very sincere esteem and love for thy dear wife, 
sister and children, please let them know it. ***** 



CHAPTER IX. 

Yellow Fever of '93 — Death and character of Margaret Haines — Letter 
to her children — R. J. is ill v/ith the fever — T. Scattergood's visits 
and notes — Assiduous attentions of Dr. Cathrall— Letters — Family 
visit. 

A NUMBER of our readers will vividly remember the malignant 
fever which prevailed in, and almost depopulated Philadelphia, 
in the summer and autumn of 1793. For an interesting account 
of this awful visitation, we refer the reader to the Memoir of 
Thomas Scattergood, Friends' Library, vol. viii., page 57. To 
that interesting memoir we also refer for some letters from R. J. 
to T. S., which we do not think it necessary to transcribe. ^ 

Among those to whom this fearful epidemic was made the 
summons into life, was R. J.'s beloved friend Margaret Haines, 
an Elder of Market Street Meeting, the loss of whom was long 
and extensively felt and mourned. She was no ordinary woman, 

18 



206 ' MEMORIALS OF 

being possessed of singular energy and efficiency, able, as some 
of her contemporaries said of her, to attend to many things at 
once, and her capabilities being both sanctified and fully de- 
veloped by the Grace which was not bestowed upon her in 
vain, she was eminently useful in her day. In a quiet unosten- 
tatious way, she seemed, almost as if by intuition, to discover 
cases of suffering and need ; and knowing no distinction of sect 
in her expansive benevolence, she was to all classes an invalua- 
ble friend and helper. Entering, with the sweet insinuations 
of private sympathy, into the minute wants of her friends who 
were less amp!y supplied with the good things of this life, and 
particularly those who were called to go forth in the service of 
Truth, she would provide garments and other things suited to 
their need, and make valuable presents with a beautiful delicacy 
and privacy which did not wound those who were thus benefited. 
In her capacity as a Mother in the Church she was sympathi- 
zing, judicious and faithful. To the diffident she administered 
appropriate encouragement, and to those who needed counsel 
and reproof, she extended it with a tenderness which precluded 
offence, and thus she avoided plucking up the wheat together 
with the tares. In her final sickness she was peaceful and trust- 
ful, clothed with love to all, and even amidst her sufTering making 
provision for the poor : and the language of David may be ap- 
plied to her, " Blessed is he that considereth the poor ; the Lord 
shall deliver him in time of trouble." As an evidence of the 
close union of spirit which subsisted between Rebecca Jones 
and this honored friend, we subjoin a letter written on the morn- 
ing of her decease. 



To Caspar and Catherine Hainks. 

Tenth month Zd, 1793. 
To dear Caspar and Catherine, — I awoke this morning 
about half past five o'clock, under such a solemnity and sweet- 
ness of spirit, that it seemed almost like the end of all conflict. 



REBECCA JONES. 207 

and which I lay under till near seven ; then I believed all was 
well over with your dear parent, my truly precious friend. 
And as Rebecca Scattergood has just called to let me know that 
the awful scene is closed, my feelings now are sweetly joyous on 
her account ; she is blessed for ever and ever, and my sym- 
pathy is renewed with you, who feel like my own children. 
You will, I trust, be helped now in the needful hour, and if, by 
my coming down, I could render you any essential service, I 
would run all risks. Don't think at all about me ; the Lord 
hath helped hitherto, and I bless his ever worthy name. My 
dear love salutes you and dear H. Hastings. I cannot add, my 
heart is too full for utterance, more than that I am your sincerely 
affectionate and sympathizing friend. 




On the 11th of Tenth month, R. Jones was seized with the 
yellow fever, and for two weeks there was little prospect of her 
recovery. Her illness continued for nearly two months, and it 
may not be out of place to note, as an evidence of the difficulty 
in obtaining aid in this contagious disease, that the wages of her 
nurse was two dollars per diem. Thomas Scattergood visited 
her daily, and sometimes frequently during the day ; and from 
his diary we quote the following passages : 

" Tenth month 23d, 1793. Called to see Rebecca Jones, 
who was seized with great pain, and could hardly talk to me 
through extreme suffering, though the day before she seemed 
bravely. 

" 23d. Dear Rebecca Jones appeared under much discourage- 
ment about getting about again; but was in a heavenly frame 
of mind, and glad to see me ; telling me that I felt like bone of 
her bone. On my telling her that I had not seen but that she 
might be raised up to bear testimony to the Lord's goodness and 
truth, she replied — ' I am a poor atom, unworthy to be em- 
ployed in the Lord's work. Dear Thomas, many have fled 



208 MEMORIALS OF 

from the Truth, but the Lord will meet with them. I have been 
an exercised woman for thirty years past, and often grieved to 
see the pride and forgetfulness of many in our Society; the 
multiplying of pleasure carriages, formal visiting, &c.' And at 
another time, when with her, she said, ' there is another dispen- 
sation in store for this people, depend upon it,' — repeating it 
more than once — ' if the people are not humbled by the pre- 
sent.' " 

" 25th. 1 called to see dear Rebecca Jones, who lay with her 
eyes almost closed ; and although I spoke to her and took her 
by the hand, she answered not, which was affecting. After 
meeting, I went again, and going near to the foot of the bed, 
she said, ' Dear Thomas, I saw thee,' alluding to the morning 
visit, ' but I could not speak ; I am in waiting, there is nothing 
to do.' She lifted up her hands and seemed to wish to say 
more, and several times gave us a look of much sweetness and^ 
love ; and at length, looking up again, she said, ' Go, and the 
Lord go with thee.' Being with her again in the afternoon, she 
said, ' Dear Thomas, if the Master renew thy commission, and 
should send thee over the water, mind the time, and do not deal 
it out to individuals, but spread it before thy friends, and thou 
wilt find sympathizers ; and when thou gets there, remember 
the poor servants in families — they are too often neglected. 
The Lord dealt bountifully with me in that land, and I have 
had comfortable seasons with such.' T asked her what she had 
a view of in the morning, when she looked up at me and said, 
go, and the Lord go with thee. She replied, ' I could not tell 
thee before J. J., though I love him, but I alluded to thy going 
over the great waters. The Lord has, in some instances, en- 
trusted me with his secrets, and I have not betrayed them.' 
After some more conversation, she appearing inclined to sleep, 
I left her with much sweetness, and could say in my heart, that 
flesh and blood had not revealed these things unto her, but our 
heavenly Father, for my confirmation and encouragement."* 

* This, as we are informed in the instructive biography of T. S., was 
before he had disclosed his prospect to any one. 



REBECCA JONES. 209 

This sickness, as it proved, was " not unto death." About 
the 1st of Twelfth month, she attended meeting, and, as T. 
Scattergood notes, " bore testimony to the goodness and mercy 
of God."* 

R. Jones was so reduced in this fever, that not only was her 
life despaired of, but her decease was currently reported. There 
are those who remember her name being officially announced 
one morning — supposed Tenth month 25th — among the deaths 
of the preceding night ; nor is it strange that such should be the 
case, as all hope was relinquished the previous evening, and the 
nurse was about to remove the pillow, and lower her head, that 
her close might be more speedy and more easy, when Dr. Cath- 
rall, her attending physician, exclaimed, "No ! No ! I can't let 
her die !" He assumed the post and duties of a nurse, and re- 
mained with her all night, dropping into her mouth alternately, 
water and diluted wine ; and when, in the morning. Dr. Physick 
— who, besides beii^g in consultation with Dr. Cathrall, was 
greatly attached to R. J. as his mother's friend — called in, he 
was amazed to find her not only living, but a little revived. 

And now it pleased her Divine Master, having made all her 
bed in sickness, and filled her soul with peace and rejoicing in 
the very valley of the shadow of death, to prolong her life for 
his service. And as in her extremity she magnified the Lord, 
so in her renovated health she recognised, in dutiful allegiance, 
his perfect right to do with her as it pleased him, and praising 
him upon the banks of deliverance, she reverently dedicated unto 
him, as a whole burnt offering, the residue of her days. 

In a brief account of this epidemic, after mentioning the death 
of four thousand of the inhabitants of Philadelphia, from the 
latter part of the Seventh month to the second week in the 
Eleventh month, R. J. remarks, " But the visitation and awful 
judgment of the Most High were singularly mixed with mercy, 

* On page 61 of the Memoirs of T. Scattergood as published in 
"Friends Libkary," may be seen a weighty epistle addressed to him 
by R.J. bearing date 5th mo. 10th, 1794, with the endorsement — "To 
be opened when at sea, and recurred to in Great Britain and Ireland." 

|18* 



210 ' MEMORIALS OF 

in so many instances, that no serious mind can forbear exclaim- 
ing, ' Great and marvellous are thy works. Lord God Almighty ! 
Just and true are all thy ways, thou King of Saints !' " After 
recording the names of one hundred and eighteen of her " near 
friends and acquaintances" who died with this fever, she adds, 
for many days I had no other prospect but that I should also, 
by the same disease, be removed ; but the Lord had mercy on 
me and healed me; blessed forever be his adorable Name, 
Mercy, Goodness and Truth." 



R. J. TO C. Hustler. 

Fhiladelphia, 2d mo. 2ith, 1794. 
My beloved companion C. Hustler, and her dear children, 
may, by this salutation of my true love, be informed that I am 
still on this uncertain stage, and a monument of divine compas- 
sion, goodness and power. I am weak, and my eye-sight very 
dim, both rendered so by my long late sickness, called the yel- 
low fever, from which I was spared, until the weather grew 
cooler than it had been during the two months before, for which 
I desire to be thankful. I was not taken down till the 11th of 
Tenth month last ; and before I was able to go out again, the 
disease, which had raged with great violence, was marvellously 
checked, and the people who left the city through fear, had 
mostly returned. However, it pleased the good Hand which 
was stretched out over the city, and permitted upwards of four 
thousand of its inhabitants, of all ranks, ages, sexes, conditions, 
and denominations, among whom were seven of our select mem- 
bers,* and many others of my near friends, to be deposited 
thereby in the silent grave. Oh, what a humbling season this 

* Margaret Haines, Huson Longstreth, Daniel Offley, Samuel Lewis, 
Samael Taylor, Charles Williams, &c. In addition to these, she notes 
the decease, in the fever of this year, of the following select members, 
whose residence, we believe, was not in Philadelphia : Thomas Light- 
foot, Joseph Moore, Owen Jones. 



REBECCA JONES. 211 

has been to many ! And how I fear that the people, conchiding 
that the bitterness of death is past, will, by returning to these 
things which have drawn down the Lord's displeasure upon us, 
furnish occasion for another and perhaps yet more heavy judg- 
ment, for, " verily there is a God who judgeth in the earth." To 
return : let it suffice, my dear friend, to say, that I was confined 
three weeks to my bed, and to the house near eight weeks ; 
during which time, and when at the worst, " my soul did mag- 
nify the Lord, and my spirit rejoiced in God my Saviour," in 
that he condescended to my low estate, and, by the incomes of 
his love, sustained me ; granted to me more than I dared to peti- 
tion for, and was to me all things. Blessed now and forever, 
be his adorable name ! I refer thee to my beloved brother 
Thomas Scattergood, who is bound in gospel love to visit your 
land — and probably John Pemberton may be again with you — 
for any particular information thou mayest wish to have, con- 
cerning me, as he (i. e. Thomas Scattergood) fearless of danger 
from infection, was my frequent daily visitor, and was made 
near to my best life ; as also respecting the deplorable state of 
this once joyous city during the late visitation, for I have no 
language whereby I can convey an adequate idea thereof. And 
now, having been raised from the brink of the grave, I am de 
sirous to stand ready to answer all the requirings of my great 
Lord and Master, who hath a right to do as he pleases, by, 
with, through and upon me, and to whom I desire to be enabled 
to offer the daily tribute of thanksgiving and praise, which is 
his due alone, now and forever more. Thy letters per D. Dar- 
by, with others from thy daughter Sarah and other friends, 
arrived whilst I was confined to my bed, and my doctor, and 
those about me, detained them many days, thinking me unfit to 
peruse them ; but v/hen I grew better, they all proved cordially 
acceptable to my poor mind. * * * * Present my dear fel- 
low laborers, now in your land, with my sincere love, and bid 
them quit themselves like good soldiers : be strong, and stand 
fast in the faith. He who hath appointed to them this service, 
will not fail them nor forsake them. Dear Job Scott is, I hear, 



212 MEMORIALS OF 

happily gathered from further labor and pain. * * * * My 
love to thee, my dear friend, and to all thy children, remains 
unabated. I should have great joy in hearing that they were 
all so listed under the heavenly banner, as that, by their con- 
duct, they may evince this to be their resolution — Let others do 
as they may, as for us, vfe will serve the Lord. 

Pray for, and pity thy poor, weak and affectionate friend, 




Philadelphia, 2d rao. 17th, 1794. 
Dear Friend J. G. Bevan, — Thy last acceptable letter re- 
mains unanswered, but thou hast doubtless heard what a hum- 
bling season has in infinite wisdom been dispensed to the inhab- 
itants of this city, and that upwards of four thousand have been 
through the prevalence of a malignant fever deposited in the 
solemn " house appointed for all living," — that I expect thou and 
other dear friends in your land, in whose debt I am in the epis- 
tolary line, will excuse me. I am however now disposed to let 
thee know that as a monument of Divine mercy and compassion 
I have been raised, amongst many others, from the brink of the 
grave ! O, saith my soul, that it may be to the praise of the 
holy Physician ascribed ! for had not he condescended to inter- 
pose, and by his power check the disorder, " I had gone down 
to the grave also, I should have beheld man no more, &c." I 
pray that I may never lose the sustaining sense of his majesty 
as well as of his mercy ! both were at that time marvellously in 
my view, and remain unspeakably so ; that I have no words 
whereby I can convey an adequate idea of what has been my lot 
during the progress of the disease, yea for many weeks before I 
was taken down, and after I was brought upon the bed of lan- 
guishing. Let it therefore suffice to say, that with respect to my- 
self, all that I petitioned for and more than I dared to crave was 
graciously granted : wherefore, and for the special blessing of a 
resigned and quiet mind, I desire to be helped to live and walk 



REBECCA JONES. 213 

humbly, gratefully, and acceptably the few remaining days of 
my pilgrimage, that when the solemn summons is indeed sealed, 
I may be counted w'orthy of a resting place with the many near 
friends who are happily gathered from all sickness, sorrow and 
pain ! I wish as opportunity offers to let my dear friends who 
are laboring amongst you know that I often think of them with 
affection. I have just heard of the death of Job Scott, in Ire- 
land, with small pox, and so sweet a calm succeeded the tidings, 
that I exclaimed thus : " Doubtless he is taken in great wisdom 
and mercy, and I have a lively hope he is gathered in peace." 
Many of his friends here and in his own country. New England, 
will be much afflicted with the account. As I before desired thee 
to impart this letter to G. and S. D. and S. E., I now add that my 
little handmaid, Mary Brooks, died about one month before I was 
taken sick. She lay but four days, and in that time slept much, 
and experienced but little pain. The evening before she was 
seized, she desired me to explain to her the meaning of Abba, 
Father ! which when I had done she replied, that is what I 
thought, but I wanted to know if I was right. By her removal 
I have sustained a loss, but I am resigned herein to a wise Pro- 
vidence who knew best when to gather her innocent soul to him- 
self. 

I could stain a deal of paper with ink and tears, if my way 
opened so to do, but as little is required at my hand in this way, 
I desire to close this, and with submission to the will of my heav- 
enly Father, who can repair all losses, and sanctify all his dis- 
pensations to his poor creatures, I pray to be helped to live with- 
out carefulness, and no longer than I may be of some use in his 
Church, and amongst this people." 

Her princely host and beloved friend, Joseph Gurney Bevan, 
writing to her from London, Fourth month 30th, 1794, thus 
tenderly and appropriately refers to the visitation of the previous 
summer and autumn : 

*' I am rather cautious of what I say respecting the sickness 
which prevailed last fall in your city, lest I should speak below 
the standard of those minds who have been witnesses of the 



214 MEMORIALS OF 

affliction, and sharers in it ; for in this case it may be emi- 
nently said, ' feeling has no fellow.' The soul has had an 
almost unaccountable knowledge of its own bitterness ; and, for 
the mercy of preservation and support, has found a joy with 
which the stranger cannot intermeddle. I see no solid crround 
of comfort at such a time, but the blessing thou mentionest of a 
resigned and quiet mind ; which, although it cannot be command- 
ed^ is, nevertheless, sometimes afforded ; and indeed, from the 
very circumstance of being received as a gift, becomes more 
precious and consoling than if it could be." 

R. J. In writing, after receipt of J. G, B's letter, to Mary Bevan 
thus refers to the above passage, " The remarks in Joseph's 
letter respecting the late sickness and mortality in this city are 
such as might be expected from a sensible feeling mind. They 
obtained the full consent of my heart, and have afforded it both 
comfort and instruction. Our friend S. Emlen and I have 
conversed about our friends at Plow Court, and his account con- 
firms the persuasion of my mind, that the Shepherd of Israel is 
graciously near to you. May He be eyed and followed, in all 
his leadings and directions, with that submission which becomes 
the sheep of his pasture, the lambs of his fold. I rejoice in 
believing that you are together stepping on in the path of holy 
rectitude and increasing dedication to the service of Him who 
intends, I verily think, to make you strong for his work, yea, 
pillars in his house to go no more out. I hear," she continues, 
" that Joseph has quitted business. Of this I am glad — perhaps 
it is in the desire I feel for his increasing usefulness in the family, 
and that he may fill up his station therein with that dignity which 
can look down upon the world freed from its shackles, as well 
as its snares." 

An impression of duty to visit, in the love of the everlasting 
gospel, the families composing the Northern District Monthly 
Meeting, pressing weightily upon her mind, it is thus referred 
to in a letter to T. Scattergood, Fifth month 10th, 1794 — "When 
thou arrivest on the British shores, remember me, and pray for 
me when thou canst, for though I have been, through the Lord's 



REBECCA JONES. 215 

ever adorable mercy, favored to see for, and feel with thee, yet 
now, under the prospect of a family visit, I am ready to sink, 
and very much doubt my ability to get through to the honor of 
ray great and good Master, being a much poorer creature every 
way than thou hast any idea of." This concern was weightily 
spread before and united with, by her friends, in a monthly 
meeting capacity, in the Third month, and a minute of Fifth 
month 27th, referring to the service as having been entered upon, 
and to the " propriety in enlarging the number of those who 
should be encouraged to afford her their aid and company," thus 
concludes — " It is therefore agreed, to mention to women Friends, 
for this service, the name of Jane Snowdon,* and that such of 
the overseers — both men and women — as may find themselves 
at liberty therefor, should be encouraged to attend thereto. Such 
an addition appearing to be ag_reeable to Rebecca's prospect." 
In a letter to a friend, she thus refers to this engagement — " I 
have been favored, beyond all expectation, to visit the families 
of our Monthly Meeting — about two hundred and fifly in num- 
ber. It was almost my summer's work, as my bodily and 
mental powers were so reduced the autumn and winter previous, 
that I went on very gradually ; my friends being disposed, in 
great sympathy and patience, to take my pace. Now it is got 
through, my heart is solaced with the evidence of peace, and 
centred in reverent acknowledgment to the great and good 
Shepherd, who not only put forth, but went before,and sustained 
through those unavoidable baptisms which attended from day to 
day. To him be the praise of his own works — I am an un- 
profitable servant." To another friend she says, respecting 
this visit, " I was mercifully helped through it, and though I 
began in a very enfeebled state of body, and little and low in 
mind, and was obliged to stop in very wet and hot weather, yet 
our elders, &c., who gave up to accompany me, held out in the 
patience, and, through the Lord's adorable goodness, I was 

* This Friend was acknowledged as a minister by Philadelphia 
Quarterly Meeting in the ensuing Eighth month, during the course of 
this family visit. 



216 MEMORIALS OF 

enabled to get through, to the peace of my own mind, with the 
sentence of an unprofitable servant." 



R. Jones to Joseph Williams. 

Philadelphia 6tk mo., 1794. 

Dear Friend, Joseph Williams, — Nothing but the love and 
esteem I bear thee and thine, and the fear of being thought un- 
grateful, could induce one in my present weak state — in every 
sense — to set about writing at this time. O^ my late situation, 
thou must have heard ; also, how we, in this city, have been 
visited; and this, I should have thought, would plead for m}'' 
not having written to thee lately : but I find by a letter to 
James Pemberton, that thou art for " exacting the uttermost 
farthing," so I will send what I have, and thou must forgive 
me the whole debt. 

I hope, that by this time, my beloved brother, Thomas Scat- 
tergood, is arrived on the British shore, and that dear John 
Pemberton will be there shortly, as he embarked about the 27th 
ultimo. May they, with those before separated from us for the 
gospel's sake, be helped every way to finish the work given 
them to do, and in the Master's time, be restored to us, with the 
wages of unshaken peace. I am, through the Lord's goodness, 
so far restored in my health, as to be engaged in a family visit 
here, though I get on but slowly, not daring to go out much in 
wet weather ; yet trust I am in the way of my duty Godwards, 
and pray that the few fleeting days that remain to me, maybe 
filled up with increasing dedication of heart to the service of 
Him, who hath, in so marvellous a manner, raised me from the 
brink of the grave, and is now and forever worthy to be obeyed 
in all things. * * * 

We are in expectation of shortly seeing D. Darby and R. 
Young; they are on the return from their journey southward, 
where I hear they have labored faithfully, and where, I have 
no doubt, they have had a pretty full share of suffering, both 
of body and mind. It is likely, from accounts received, that 



REBECCA JONES. 217 

dear Martha Routh is on her passage hither with Wm. Rotch 
and family ; but what port in America they intend for, I know 
not ; New England likely, for Wm. R., belongs there. 

I wish thou wouldst learn to give without expecting returns 
from me ; that would be truly noble ; and tell me how R. 
Grubb, M. Dudley, S. Shackleton, and E. Pirn come on — how 
Clonmell school flourishes, with other interesting accounts ; and 
whether S. Grubb's works are reprinted, with any addition or 
alteration, thereof. * * 

Believe me to be unchangeably thy assured friend and little 
sister in the Truth, 



^^Hi^ 



N. B. I omitted, in due place, to mention another ambassador, 
viz., David Sands, from the government of New York, wiio has 
obtained certificates to make a religious visit to Friends in Eu- 
rope. He is a near friend of mine. Surely, there is still a 
precious seed left in these lands, or so many would not be con- 
strained to visit you. May their labors be more availing than 
those of some, who also have done their best. And mayest 
thou, my dear friend, be encouraged to hold fast, and occupy 
with the precious gift, which thou hast received ; that so the 
Lord's work may prosper in thy hand, and thy evening close 
with the sweet reward due to faithfulness. 

The arrival of the Friends referred to in the above letter is 
thus noticed in the Epistle to London from the Women's Y. M. 
of Philadelphia, (1794,) the draft of which is in R. J.'s hand- 
writing. 

** We have had the acceptable company, and partaken of the Gospel la- 
bors of our endeared friends Deborah Darby and Rebecca Young, in the 
several sittings of this meeting, and are also bound to give thanks to 
the Father of mercies, on hearing that our dear friends Samuel Em- 
len, John Wigham, Martha Routh, &c., are safely arrived at Boston in. 
New England— so that the exclamation of the Royal Psalmist is feel- 
ingly adopted by some of our minds, — * How excellent is thy loving 
kindness oh Lord ! — therefore the children of men put their trus-t un- 
der the shadow of thy wings." Unto whom we desire to render thanks- 
giving and praise, both now and forever." 
19 



218 MEMORIALS OF 

CHAPTER TENTH. 
1794._1799. 

A young friend joins her family. — R. J.'s last letter to E. Tuke. — N. 
Wain's prospect fox England. — Visit in N. Jersey. — ^Letter from S. 
Harrison. — Death and character of Catherine Phillips. — Attends New 
York Yearly Meeting. — Letters. — Establishment of West Town 
School and of Indian Committee. — Letter from W. Savery. — R. J. de- 
livers her message in Monthly Meeting. — Fever of '97. — R. J., goes to 
Edgely. — Death of Thamazin Clifford. — Returns to Brooke's Court. 

An interesting child, who had been with R. J., as a daughter, 
being removed by death, the bereavement was keenly felt by 
her ; so much so, that in much disconsolate feeling, not know- 
ing how to think of supplying her place, she lodged alone in 
her rented house in Brooke's court, for six months. In the 9th 
month, 1794, a young Friend (B. C.) was, as R. J., expresses 
it, " providentially afforded unto me." " I am furnished," she 
notes, " with another daughter, of a lovely, amiable disposition. 
She often so freshly revives my late dear Mary, that the tears 
fiovv involuntarily." Thus divinely joined together, they were 
associated in sweet and uninterrupted harmony till the marriage 
of the younger ; calling forth from very many visitors, in re- 
ligious opportunities and otherwise, allusions to Naomi and 
Ruth, a comparison which was more fully justified when Ber- 
nice became a widow, and, renting the house in Brooke's court, 
adjoining that of R. Jones, a door was made to communicate 
between their chambers. Some years previous to R. J.'s re- 
moval from time, some reasons rendering their residence in the 
court ineligible, B. A. took a house immediately opposite to the 
North Meeting, in which they dwelt together till this venerable 
mother in Israel was removed to the triumphant church. This 
brief notice is given in anticipation of the course of the narra- 
tive, the compiler being unwilling, in a biography of R. J., to 



REBECCA JONES. 219 

omit recording the close union which subsisted for 22 years, and 
to which, in the loose manuscripts before him, almost innume- 
rable references are made. A less interested compiler would 
have quoted much more freely from their correspondence. 

To Esther Tuke. 

Philadelphia, 1st mo. 25th, 1795. 
******** 

Some sketches of the late awful dispensation to the inhabi- 
tants of this city, and of that share therein which in perfect 
wisdom was allotted me, thou hast doubtless had through divers 
channels. Let it therefore, my dear friend, suffice to say, that 
He who is mighty hath, in this, as well as in former seasons, 
done for poor, unworthy me, great things. Under the fresh 
sense whereof I feelingly acknowledge, " holy and reverend is 
his name." Yea, worthy is he to be confided in and trusted to, 
now and forever more. Amen. 

I received some comforting information from your land, such 
as I know makes thy heart glad ; because in the present day 
the Lord hath given the word, and great is the company of them 
that publish it — amongst the dear youth especially. For many 
of them I also have travailed, according to my small measure ; 
and I wish this renewed proof of the continued care of the 
one great and good Shepherd, may animate his ancient devoted 
servants, more fully to commit their woj-k and ways to Him 
who doeth all things well, and who, having given some of these 
to see, as good old Simeon did, are ready to adopt his language, 
•' Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace," <fec., they 
having, like him, waited for the consolation of Israel. 

Our own country hath not yet been cast off in anger, though 
closely and heavily punished by the hand of infinite Jusrice. 
Many of my dear cotemporaries have been gathered to their 
everlasting rest, and, though too few appear to lay these things 
rightly to heart, deep instruction has been sealed on the minds 
of an humble remnant, and resolutions have been formed to hold 



220 xMEMORIALS OF 

fast that which they have received from the immediate hand of 
the Father of mercies, the alone fountain of all light, life and 
blessedness. A hopeful succession is also furnished of rightly 
anointed female ministers in this city, and several of them are 
acknowledged by the Church as such. A niece* of dear S. 
Harrison, gave up, at my request, to accompany me in my lale 
visit to the families of our large Monthly Meeting, the sympathy 
and weight of whose spirit, and the tender, patient assistance of 
divers other Friends, were truly strengthening to my poor 
bowed down mind. It is now, to my unspeakable comfort, as 
well as great admiration, completed ; we having been at about 
250 families. May the praise be given where it is only due, 
by me, a poor, unprofitable servant. Our dear friends, Debo- 
rah Darby and Rebecca Young, are in this city, engaged in like 
manner amongst the families of Pine Street Meeting. They 
have general acceptance and good service amongst Friends and 
others, and are, in the fulness and authority of the gospel, often 
led to " other sheep which are not of this fold." May their 
steady example in the service of their great Master, and their 
labors under his direction and help, be productive of lasting 
benefit to the visited, and tend to their own establishment in 
righteousness and peace. The like ardent desire I feel on ac- 
count of our dear friends, J. Wigham and M. Routh. Our being 
deprived of dear J. Pemberton's help and example, is sensibly 
felt by many ; but the vacancy which I feel most, is that made 
in the circle of my nearest fellow laborers by the absence of 
dear Thomas Scattergood, with and for whom, great has been 
my sympathy and unity of soul. His tender frame is so little 
attended to by himself, that unless he has a feeling companion, 
I shall fear that he may, like dear E. Drinker, never return to 
us. But as Iter meat and drink was to do the Master's will, be- 
lieving as I do that she now reaps the rewaixi of faithfulness — 
with dear Job Scott, who quitted the field a little before her — 
although I sometimes lament the loss which the churches have 

* * Jane SnowdoR. 



REBECCA JONES. 221 

thereby sustained, I dare not call in question the wisdom of the 
God of the whole earth, knowing that he doeth all things right. 

.:jf * ;H * * * * 

Now in that love, which is not subject to change, do I salute 
my endeared friend, greatly desiring that we may so steadily 
trust in our all sufficient Helper, as that, like Mount Zion, we 
may never be removed, but that, when this short fight ol 
affliction shall terminate, we may, through his adorable mercy 
and o-oodness, be counted worthy to join the song of his trium- 
phant church. Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God and the 
Lamb, worthy of all glory and praise for ever and ever, 
I remain thy poor fellow pilgrim, 




To the above letter was appended the following post- 
script : 

" If my beloved E. Tuke is beyond the reach of this saluta- 
tion, I hope for some reply from survivors. May a double 
portion of her dedicated disposition, rest on all her family, saith 
poor R. J." 

The foreboding implied in the postscript, was to Esther Tuke 
blissfully realized, she having, before the reception of this letter, 
put off the earthly tabernacle in which it had been her chief 
concern to do the will of Him with whom she was favored to 
partake of " communion large and high." And ere R. J.'s 
salutation had been wafted across the ocean, she had doubtless 
been led, by Him who is in the midst of the throne, to living 
fountains of waters, and had joined with the redeemed of all 
generations in the holy anthem of the triumphant Church. 

Speaking in a letter to C. Hustler, First month 26th, 1795, 
of her daughter Sarah Hustler, subsequently an eminent min- 
ister of the gospel, R. J. says, " May she suffer the candle to 
stand in its allotted place, that so the light of her innocent, up- 
right and humble example may become happily influential on 

19* 



222 MEMORIALS OF 

the spirits and conduct of the younger children. I am rejoiced 
in hearing that she has wisely submitted to the appointment of 
your Monthly Meeting, and the call of the collective body at 
your last Yearly Meeting ; and trust that, as she offers herself, 
willingly and devotedly, to the Lord's service, she will be 
strengthened to do what her hands may find to do — so will her 
peace flow as a river, and her righteousness, those successive 
acts of obedience which may be required of her, follow in suc- 
cession as the waves of the sea." In the same letters he says, 
*' Samuel Emlen's son is on the eve of marriage with Susanna 
Diliwyn, — they are a hopeful couple. Reay King is lately mar- 
ried to one of my old scholars, Anne, only child of William 
Wilson, a valuable elder of this city — a choice girl : and the 
only daughter of my late much loved friend E. Drinker is to bo 
married next week, agreeably. Oh, how my feelings have been 
tried on hearing of the departure of my two dear friends. Job 
Scott and Elizabeth Drinker, and my beloved friends Catherine 
Phillips and Deborah Townsend : but they are happily landed 
on the peaceful shore. Oh that I may be favored to join their 
and thy purified spirits, by and by, in incessantly celebrating the 
praise of our ever adorable Helper, Father and Friend, who lives 
and reigns, and is forever worthy." 

Katherine Howell, in her diary, says. First month 27th, 
1795 — " Our Monthly Meeting this day, was a season of great 
favor to some, whose states were pertinently spoken to. After 
the minute was read of R. Jones having performed the fiimily 
visit to our meeting, Deborah Darby arose, like a mother in 
Israel indeed, and spoke somewhat after this manner : ' See, 
Friends, how you have been favored, beyond the rich man for- 
merly, who requested that one might be sent from the dead to 
warn his relations; but it was not granted to him. But you 
have had one raised up to you again, therefore I entreat you to 
gather up the fragments that nothing be lost.' " 

Nicholas Wain, having obtained the united concurrence of his 
friends, in his prospect of a visit to Ireland and part of England, 
R. J. was solicitous that he should have the comfort of a suitable 



REBECCA JONES. 223 

companion ; and she notes, Fourth month 3d, " I have this eve- 
ning heard that one of our most upright pillars, David Bacon, 
an Elder worthy of double honor, has yielded in sympathy with 
dear'N. Wain, in order to accompany him over the great deep, 
which must be a precious seal to N. W.'s commission. What 
joy will dear S. Harrison and Thomas Scattergood feel, should 
they be permitted to meet ; D. B. being a father in the Truth to 
both. Thomas' first wife was D. Bacon's daughter, one of my 
scholars." 

" 1795, Eighth month 15th. Being poorly in health, and 
having obtained leave of my friends, my kind friend, Catherine 
Haines, offering to take me into the country for the benefit of 
the air ; we crossed the Delaware about 3 P. M., in company 
with several Jersey Friends, and had a pleasant ride to Wood- 
bury, where we staid at the house of John Tatum, during the 
Quarterly Meeting there. Two meetings were held on First 
day, and that for business on Second day — all large, and mea- 
surably owned with good. There were also from Philadelphia, 
N. A. S., E. Foulke, Daniel Drinker, Margaret Elliott, &c. 
The first two had acceptable service. We visited, at difTerent 
times, Sarah Whitall, Joseph and Hannah Whitall, J. Black- 
well and wife, David Cooper, in a low but favorable situation, 
S. Mickle and John Reeve. 

19th. In the afternoon came to Haddonfield ; lodged at John 
Hopkins,' and attended their Week day Meeting — an exercising 
time. Martha Allinson, and three of her children, met us and 
came with us to B. Swett's, from whence we had purposed to 
go that afternoon home with M. Allinson, (at Cropwell,) but a 
heavy rain coming on, and a strong wind blowing from the 
north-east, we suffered M. A. to depart, and we being both in- 
firm, were most easy to abide with our kind friends, B. and M. 
Swett, that night. 

21st. It having rained steadily during the night, and con- 
tinuing wet, we were easy to give up going to Cropwell Meeting, 
hoping to get there soon." 

Next day the 22d, she visited the Friend mentioned in the 



224 MEMORIALS OF 

succeeding note, and participating with her hostess in true 
gospel fellowship, they were enabled to 

" Gird up each other for the race divine." 

At the dinner table, before partaking of the repast, R. J. 
commenced with referring to " the provisio7i which is novj gra- 
ciously offered to our acceptance^'' and spoke with a weight and 
solemnity which remained, though many years of vicissitude, 
impressed upon the minds of those who were gathered around 
the board. 

22d. "Went to Martha Allinson's, and after an open time 
there, D. A. took us to Burlington, where we attended their 
two meetings on the 23d, being First day. We went home 
with John Cox and lodged. Next day dined at John Smith's, 
and came in the evening to Burlington. 

25th. Concluded to stay till to-morrow, when, if most easy 
to go to Buck's Quarterly Meeting, we shall have but seven miles 
to go, and John Hoskins has agreed to go with us." 

Her diary, which breaks off abruptly, was probably inter- 
rupted by illness. After attending Bucks and Burlington 
Quarterly Meetings, and spending a short time in Bucks county, 
she returned to her home with an intermittent fever. 

In a letter to J. G. Bevan, 5th mo. 22d, she says — " The 
affecting accounts of dear John Penaberton's departure reached 
us two weeks ago. His wife has kept her room ever since, and 
with many others, is sorrowful indeed. On his account there is, 
I trust, no cause for mourning. He was a brother beloved and 
honored by me. If dear G. and S. Dillwyn are with you when 
this comes to harid, tell them I continue to love them as a sister 
and that I also continue in the belief that if their lives are 
spared a little longer, they will return to dwell among their own 
people." Jn the same letter, referring to business affairs in 
Philadelphia after the Yellow Fever,* she says — " The spirit 
for building, for purchasing and selling estates, is amazingly 
great. Every article in housekeeping is so raised in price that 
one might almost fancy oneself in Great Britain, and be awake 
too — so that I, with others, am of the mind that the present face 



REBECCA JONES. 226 

of things will be changed, though the time as well as the man- 
ner I desire to leave." Expressing a wish to be at New Eng- 
land Yearly Meeting, " if it were my proper business," she 
adds — " at present I have not much prospect of going from 
home, and yet I hardly think I shall be allowed to stay all 
summer in port. * * * j am wearing away gradually 
under a load of complicated trials — some of which have been 
more pinching than any preceding : so that, did not He who is 
touched with a feeling of our infirmities condescend to suc- 
cour and sustain mayvellously, I should sink below hope and 
faint in this day of adversity. May all things which are per- 
mitted and dispensed in unerring wisdom, work together for my 
increasing fitness to enter into Everlasting rest when this sore 
fight of affliction is over — is my fervent prayer." 



Extract front a letter from Sarah Harrison to R. J, 

Leeds, Ath mo. ith, 179G. 

* # # * * 

* I do not wish to burden thee with my troubles, for I find thou 
hast enough of thy own, and my feelings are awakened, and my 
sympathy hath been renewed with thee, in the late fiery trial 
through which thou hast had to pass, though I know not from 
whence those bitter waters spring, and therefore I am a stranger 
— that is, from information — to the nature of the case. But as 
I was pondering it in my mind this morning, the language of 
the apostle was brought, with some degree of clearness, to my 
remembrance, inducing me to take up my pen, poor as I am, 
just to remind thee of what he says — ' Think it not strange 
concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some 
strange thing had happened unto you ; but rejoice, inasmuch as 
ye are partakers of Christ's sufierings ;' and, indeed, it is good 
for us, on such occasions, to remember who it was that sufl^ered 
so great contradiction from sinners, even from one who had 
dipped in the dish with him, which we may suppose made it 



226 MEMORIALS OF 

harder to bear than the same treatment from a professed enemy 
would have been. For, as said David, ' if it had been an enemy, 
1 could have borne it.' And amongst the many perils that Paul 
met with by land and by sea, he looked upon them that were 
brought upon him by false brethren, to be the worst. Dear 
friend, if thou hast been tried with any thing similar to what 1 
have hinted at, and thy soul made sorrowful by any of those 
with whom thou hast heretofore taken sweet counsel, and you 
have in those days gone up to the house of the Lord in com- 
pany, thou art to be felt for, and I do feel for thee as much as 
my nature is capable of. And my desire is, that thou mayst 
take that ancient advice, ' Fret not thyself because of evil doers,' 
but let such be unto thee as a heathen man and a publican ; 
though it is reasonable to suppose that the feelings of thy mind 
on such mournful occasions will produce the moving language, 
' how is the shield of the mighty vilely cast away !' " 

Well, what more shall I say upon an unknown subject, except 
it be, fear thou not, for though thousands may fall by thy 
side, and ten thousand by thy right hand, none of these things 
shall come near thee, only thou shalt see them with thine eyes, 
and mayest have to go heavily on thy way on their account. 
But oh, mayest thou remember that it was those to who sighed, 
and cried for wrong things, which prevailed in days of old, that 
he v/ho had the writer's ink-horn was sent to set his mark upon 
ihem. And with him there is neither variableness nor shadow 
of turning ; so cast not away thy confidence, but trust in the 
Lord for ever. On my own account, I have reverently to ac- 
knowledge, that he that is mighty hath done for me great things ; 
ha hath taken me as from the dung-hill, and set me among 
princes. The consideration thereof hath often humbled my 
mind, and leads to the enquiry, ' What shall I render unto thee 
for all thy benefits 1' And persuaded I am that nothing short 
of the dedication of my whole heart will be accepted ; and I am 
very sensible, that the time is coming wherein I shall stand as 
much in need of the prayers of my friends, as I have at any 
time since I lefl home. And therefore I most sincerely desire 



REBECCA JONES. 227 

to be remembered by thee, and by all that desire my pre- 
servation." ***** 

In this year died Catherine Phillips (formerly Peyton) whom 
R. J. called " my beloved parent in Christy through whom 
I received the first awakening stroke." The following well 
condensed sketch of her life and character (taken from a manu- 
script copy preserved by R. J.,) being apparently not written 
by a Friend, and presenting some valuable traits not fully set 
forth in her printed memoir, is thought worthy of insertion. 

From the Gentleman's Magazine for 1795 
Died, at Redruth, county Cornwall, at an advanced age, Catherine 
Phillips, one of the people called Quakers, relict of the late W. P., a 
gentleman of large concerns in that mining country, and of great re- 
spectability, whom she married late in life. Her life and talents were too 
extraordinary not to merit record. She was a native of Dudley, county 
Worcester, and sister to the late James Peyton, of that place. Her 
natural powers were uncommonly comprehensive ; and, just as she 
arrived at the prime of life, she believed it her duty to give up all other 
considerations to engage in the Gospel Ministry, among the Society in 
which she was born. Her conceptions of the purity and glory of the 
Gospel, and that real sanctification of heart, which it not only teaches, 
but furnishes the means of effecting, were deeply engraven on a mind 
devoted to God, and filled with love towards mankind. Thus animated, 
she visited the congregations of the Society throughout most parts of 
England, and several times those of Ireland ; and with the concurrence 
necessary by the discipline established amongst them, she visited the 
Society in North America, in company with a young woman of Ireland 
as extraordinary as herself; thus foregoing ease and affluence for a 
very arduous and laborious service. Many who attended her ministry, 
were surprised at finding such powers of unfolding the Christian doc- 
trine in a woman then in her youth ; and a dignified clergyman, we are 
told, once said, " he wondered where she attained them." A singular 
testimony to the excellence of her preaching, is given by a person of 
great credibility. A gentleman went to her at Cambridge, and took two 
youths, then under his care, v;ith him, on purpose, as he said, to con- 
vince them of the futility of all pretensions to inspiration; but owned 
that he left the assembly with very different impressions from those 
with which he entered it. She had very considerable knowledge in 
medicine and botany, and published something on planting and beau- 



228 MEMORIALS OF 

tifying waste grounds, of which her travels and practical knowledge 
rendered her a good judge. Her charity and attention to the poor were 
extensive ; and she was deeply concerned for the reformation of their 
morals. With this view, she drew up an address to the gentlemen of 
Cornwall, who were met a few years since on the mining concerns in 
those parts ; and on the agitation of the public mind since the French 
Revolution, she wrote to the miners, to convince them of their duty 
aQd interest in '• studying to be quiet and mind their own business." 
This she knew would be her worthy husband's advice, had he been 
living at such a time, who had great influence with them. This paper 
was thought so salutary, that a neighboring magistrate had it printed 
and dispersed in the country. She was an ardent well wisher to the 
governors as well as governed of this realm, desiring to see that 
righteousness which exalteth a nation " so to flourish as to draw down 
the divine blessing on this island and its dependencies." For some 
years before her decease, she was rendered a perfect cripple by a rheu- 
matic gout; and during the confinement which this occasioned, her 
mental faculties suffered with the body, and rendered her, like some 
other great minds, after a series of uncommon exertion, an object of 
commiseration. From these clouds, however, she at times shone forth 
again, and wrote with precision on the subjects alluded to ; and also a 
tract to show why the Society of Friends could not fully unite with the 
Methodists in their missions to America and the Indies. She left also 
some MS. poems. During this time she could not distend her fingers 
so as to write in the usual way. To the last of her ability, she endeav- 
ored to devote herself to the service of mankind, and has left an exam- 
pie of exalted virtue, although in a line unusual to the generality of 
her sex. Her uniform, upright conduct in her own community, gained 
her great esteem; and her Christian courage to oppose licentiousness 
among the gay, covetousness among the rich, and fanaticism among 
the weak, rendered her one of the most useful and distinguished mem- 
bers of it. 

From New York, where she appears to have been attend- 
ing the Yearly Meeting, accompanied by Catherine Haines^— a 
minute from her Monthly Meeting being sent after her — she 
writes, Fifth month 27th, 1796, to Henry Drinker : * * 

" 'Tis expected the Yearly Meeting will close to-morrow. 
It has been large, and, so far as my weak judgment goes, a 
solid instructive time ; though by reason of an attack of chill 
and fever, 1 was prevented attending on Third and Fourth days, 



REBECCA JONES. 229 

since which I have just made out to get to meeting, in C. Haines's 
carriage, and returned immediately to my chamber at E. 
Prior's, where I have all necessary attention and care. Thy 
messages of love have been given to all intended, except H. 
Barnard, who is also laid by through indisposition. She was, 
however, at meeting this morning, and spread a concern be- 
fore the meeting, with which Martha Routh and myself could 
not fully accord, yet in sympathy with her, and at her request, 
we bore her company into the men's meeting, where it was de* 
cided against. I hope she will be relieved thereby. 

" Thy account of the departure of our dear friends, and that 
they went out on Seventh day, was gratifying to divers Friends 
here, particularly J. Wigham and M. Routh. These dear friends, 
with myself, have a treat in the company of Wm. Rotch, 
&c., who arrived here on Seventh day. He looks, I think, full 
as well as before he went to France, &c., only that his hair 
is a little changed. If my health should be restored by the 
early part of next week, I hope to turn homewards, though I 
may, perhaps, stop a few days at Rahway, &c." 

After referring to the removal by death of some Friends, she 
continues : 

" But I consider that it is but a little while that we, who are 
now moving about, shall have the opportunity of evincing, to 
such as are advancing on the stage of life, that we prefer the 
welfare of the cause of Truth to our chief joy, and in so doing, 
be ' laying up a good foundation against the time to come.' 
Therefore, my humbled spirit craves that I may, in an especial 
manner, cleave closely, now in my declining age, to that 
good Hand which, in early hfe, visited and bore up my tribula- 
ted soul ; which has been with me in every varied scene, and 
which is still to me, however unworthy, the alone Helper — the 
Physician of value — the unfailing Friend ! May the sense of 
his unmerited kindness keep me through the remaining part of 
my painful pilgrimage, where only, as I am abundantly 
convinced, is safety, even in a state of humble watchfulness and 
child-like simplicity— weaned from all creaturely dependence, 

20 



230 MEMORIALS OF 

and fully resigned to his blessed will in all the future dispensa- 
tions of his unerring Providence ; and finally, allow me just 
an admittance within the gates of that Holy City, towards which, 
with longing desire, the eye of my soul has been turned since 
the sixteenth year of my age ! Unite with me in desire, my 
dear friend, for this ! that without seeking ' great things for 
myself,' I may devote myself more faithfully as the evening 
approaches, in seeking after an establishment in His favor, 
which is better than life, and which, if but happily obtained, 
will more than compensate for all that my poor exercised spirit 
hath endured for more than forty years : being the crown that 
will never fade, but abide for ever and ever. 

" If I have exceeded, tell me so, and believe me to be thy 
much obliged, and sincerely affectionate friend, 



^^-^ 



Fifth month 30th, in a letter to B. C, she mentions, that 
although she had suffered with an attack of chill and fever, she 
attended all but three or four of the sittings of the Yearly 
Meeting. " We have had," she says, " a large and solid meet- 
ing, and last night a parting meeting with the youth, which 
was a blessed season, in which I thought of thee, with strong 
desires that thy tender mind may be duly impressed with a 
sense of the Lord's preserving goodness and fear, and be kept 
in a watchful innocent state. Hereby will my joy be greatly 
increased. John Wigham lodges at John King's, William Rotch 
and his daughter Mary, at John Murray's, where are also 
Martha Roulh and her companion L. R. — so we are scattered 
about. I hear that R. Cathrall* is' going fast, so thou seest, my 
dear, that the youth, as well as the aged, are called away 
— that we need all endeavor to be in readiness to meet the 
Lord in the way of his coming. I do not suspect thy being 
in more danger than other young persons ; but as my soul is 
deeply concerned for thy preservation, and as many dear friends 
• Sister to Dr. Cathrall, and niece to H. C. 



REBECCA JONES. 231 

have taken most especial tender notice of thee, and do love thee, 
and, what is far better, I believe thy heavenly Father loves 
thee, and has not been wanting in his secret and blessed in- 
timations to thy own mind, I do therefore earnestly.entreat thee 
to beg of Him for help and power, to resist all manner of temp- 
tations., and to walk before him in humility, innocence and 
holy fear. Then will he delight to bless thee, and both inward- 
ly and outwardly to prosper thee, and crown thy tender mind 
with the incomes of his enriching peace. Farewell my dear 
girl — may the Lord keep thee and me near to himself, that, if 
we meet again in this world, it may be with minds suitably im- 
pressed with a sense of his goodness, and if, in his wisdom, 
he see meet to order it otherwise, oh, that we may meet in the 
mansions of rest and peace. So live in that which will help 
thee to love thy poor, weak, affectionate friend. 




Eleventh month 3d, 1796. In a letter to James, son of her 
beloved Catherine Phillips, she says : " I expect thou hast ac- 
counts of our great works which are in contemplation,* — such 
as attempting to civilize the inhabitants of the wilderness, and 

*It was not without reason, that Rebecca Jones referred to the mea- 
sures in question as great works, then in contemplation. In the au- 
tumn of 1795, the Yearly Meeting of Philadelphia appointed a com- 
mittee to endeavor to promote the civilization and improvement of the 
Indians residing chiefly in the State of New York. Funds to defray 
the expenses were raised by voluntary contribution, aided by a liberal 
donation from Friends in England. A number of young Friends, of 
both sexes, were engaged to reside for a time, among the natives in 
various locations, and endeavor to instruct them in the arts of civilized 
life, such as farming, domestic economy, and several of the mechanic 
arts. 

It would exceed the limits of a note, to given even a concise 
history of the operations of this committee; but it may be stated that 
the appointment is still kept up, though our valued friend Thomas 
Wistar is the only one of the original number now remaining. The 
care of the aborigines in various parts of our extended country, has, 
since that time, engaged the attention of several other Yearly Meetings, 
and the attention of the Philadelphia committee, has been, for a num- 
ber of Years, chiefly directed to the settlements on the Alleghany. Al- 



232 MEMORIALS OF 

to establish a Boarding school after the manner of your Ack- 
worth ; build a large meeting house, (after your example,) to ac- 
commodate both sexes at the Yearly Meeting ; admit black peo- 
ple into society fellowship, &c., &c. Well, my heart wishes 
\Xell to every great, noble, and virtuous undertaking ; but such 
is my declining state of health, advanced age, and dimness of 
sight, that I have no expectation that these things will be so 
perfected, as that. I may adopt the language of good old Simeon 
thereon ; yet am in the faith that success will attend the endea- 
vors of such as have at heart the promotion of the good cause 
of Truth therein." 



though the progress of those people, in the arts of civilized life, has 
not fully answered the anticipation of their friends, their condition is 
greatly ameliorated. Instead of the bark wigwam of that day, many 
of them now occupy decent and comfortable houses, not inferior to 
those inhabited by their white neighbors ; and instead of the precarious 
subsistence afforded by the chase, they generally rely upon the culti- 
vation of the soil, and deposit the produce of their farms in barns 
erected by Indian workmen. The ancient Indian costume has almost 
entirely vanished, at least among the men ; and the savage practice of 
cutting the margin of the ear into the form of a ribbon, which was so 
prevalent sixty years ago, has quite disappeared. 

It was at the Yearly Meeting of 1794, two years prior to the dale of 
this letter, that the plan of establishing a Boarding school, under the 
superintendence of a committee of that meeting, was adopted. The 
farm at West Town had been purchased, and preparations were mak- 
ing for erecting the necessary buildings ; but the school was not opened 
until the spring of 1799. The important benefits which that seminary 
has conferred upon our religious Society, and the stimulus which it 
gave to education among Friends, are too generally known to require 
particular notice in this place. 

The Admission of black people into society, to which she alludes, 
may seem to imply that a rule to exclude them had previously existed. 
That, it is apprehended, was not the case. But in the autumn of 1796, 
a question from one of the Quarters, whether black people might be re- 
ceived into membership, was submitted to the Yearly Meeting. The 
doubt which gave rise to the inquiry, was probably owing to the pau- 
city of applicants among the colored race for admittance into mem- 
bership. Upon due deliberation, the Yearly Meeting adopted the just 
and liberal conclusion, that "where Monthly Meetings were united in 
believing that the applicants were clearly convinced of our religious 
principles, and in a good degree subject to the Divine witness in their 
own hearts, manifested by a circumspect life and conduct, said meet- 
ings are at liberty to receive such into membership, without respect to 
nation or cplor." — En. Fhiends' Review. 



REBECCA JONES. ~ 233 

It may be briefly noted, that R. J. was greatly interested, and 
much consulted, in planning the building at West Town ; in ar- 
rans^ino- the rules for the government of the school, &c. Pew- 
ter ware in great varieties, having become very much obsolete, 
was still stored away, and nearly useless in many families. R. 
Jones interested herself in collecting articles of this kind, which 
were sent to her house by wheelbarrow loads ; and these utensils, 
some in their original form, and others remodeled, were placed 
at the service of the institution. 

We now extract some passages from a long and interesting 
letter, bearing date Twelfth month 30th, 1796, addressed to her 
from Amsterdam, by her friend William Savery. 

" It has been a consolation to my spirit to feel thee interested 
as a partner with me in my present engagement, both before 
and since I left my dear native city : yet that feeling always 
brings with it a sense of my own unworthiness. I love thee as 
an elder sister, whose counsels, drawn from long experience, 
have often been a comfort to me. Thy account of thy journey 
to New York, and the movements of our brethren and sisters 
to and fro in the Lord's service, was acceptable, all but that 
part respecting thy being afflicted with a fever. Subsequent ac- 
counts give me hope that thou art recovered. Dear Rebecca, 
thy pen was rightly directed, when thou wrote that it would be 
a comfort to me to know that our holy Shepherd hath not forsaken 
the flock at North meeting. They have been long and tenderly 
endeared to me in bonds of gospel affection. My spirit often 
accompanies thee when I apprehend you may be assembled. 
The preciously visited young of the flock, both of that and the 
other meetings in our beloved city, still lie very near to my 
heart. May the good Shepherd of the flock protect and de- 
fend them from all that would hinder their progress in the way 
of present peace, and future glorification with him. Please con- 
vey my unfeigned love to as many of them as may be conve- 
nient. It would not comport with the bounds of a letter to par- 
ticularise."* 

* This message was communicated to the womens' Monthly Meeting. 

20* 



234 MEMORIALS OF 

" With regard to myself, I shall tell, as concisely as I. can, 
how 1 have fared. We had a pleasant and agreeable passage 
of four weeks, afler which thou mayest have heard that I 
staid about seven weeks in England, and had several appointed 
meetings in Liverpool, Birmingham, and London, which were 
large. It appears to be a time of openness to other professors 
in England. This was an unexpected service to me. I humbly 
hope the cause of truth was not wounded. In the multitude of my 
heavenly Father's mercies, he gave me as companions to Ger- 
many, my dear friends G. and S. Dillwyn, D. Sands, and our 
W. Farrer and B. Johnson. This, thou mayest conceive, my 
sister, had an animating tendency, and was quite unlooked for. 
I could not have chosen brethren with whom, as partners, I 
would venture my little stock more freely. George told me of 
thy hint in a letter to him, which, he acknowledged, hit the 
mark, as he had this journey on his mind before. G» and S. D. 
have continued longer at Pyrmont than the rest of us ; I be- 
lieve rightly so. D. Sands and myself have spent about five 
weeks there, first and last; were present at two of their Month- 
ly Meetings, which are now established in more regular form 
than heretofore, and contain about sixty members, (and several 
more have applied.) It would do thy heart good to be a wit- 
ness of the power of truth, in the simplicity of these innocent 
people. As we stood round the grave of dear John Pemberton, 
something solemn accompanied, with a comfortable evidence' 
that he was landed, through many tribulations, in the arms ot 
everlasting Mercy. There is a little flock at Minden, one at 
Hanover, and one near Hertford, that keep up Meetings in the 
manner of Friends, and all over this country where we have 
been, there are more or less pious people, — separatists from 

by R. Jones, in a remarkably sweet and heart tendering communication. 
She had risen to speak to business, but her exercise soon extended be- 
yond what was her prospect on rising ; and while the words flowed 
from her lips like oil, her persuasive eloquence deeply affected many 
hearts. She mentioned the reception of this letter, the place of its date, 
(SjCm the writer thereof being very highly beloved by the congregation, 
" There were giants in those days." 



REBECCA JONES. 235 

outward forms. Some are attached to the mystic writers, 
(Jacob Bo3hm, Lady Guion, &c.,) but appear to be honestly 
enquiring for a right foundation. By these we have been re- 
ceived with open arms, and by the people at large with much 
civility and respect ; as well the great and officers of the army, 
&c., as the poor. D. Sands and myself have been led much 
in one line of service, and have been nearly united in travelling 
together about one thousand miles, having our two companions, 
and Lewis Seebohm as an interpreter ; for though I have some- 
times interpreted for my friends, as well as delivered my own 
concern in meetings, yet I do not find myself perfect enough in 
the German to refuse an interpreter, especially such a one as L. 
S., who has a peculiar talent for it, and enters into the subject 
feelingly 'with us, so that I think he loses nothing. This may 
be an encouragement to some of my fellow laborers who may 
have a concern to visit this people, and who are unacquainted 
with the German. In several places, the tender people at part- 
ing, expressed a hope that the Lord of the Harvest would send 
more laborers among them, and I cannot doubt, that if Friends 
stand open to the pointings of truth, their desire will be an- 
swered. Here is a new and very extensive field opened ; the 
influence of the Priests is decreasing, and the hearts of Princes 
enlarging, to allow more liberty of conscience than heretofore, — 
although the fruits that have yet appeared in Germany, are but 
small, compared with America. The Prince of Waldeck 
has been kind to the Friends of Pyrmont in several ways, 
and allows them the free exercise of their worship. The 
priests, however, still exact some fees, for offices which they 
do not perform, as christenings, burials, &c. We have visited 
Berlin, the capital of Prussia, and several other cities in that 
kingdom, as Magdeburg, Brandenburg, Halberstadt, &c. &c., 
in all of which are many honest enquirers after Truth ; and we 
had a number of meetings with them, which were generally 
solid and satisfactory. At Berlin, in particular, we had seven 
or eight at our Inn, where we had four chambers — some of them 
upwards of two hundred people, many of whom, though they 



236 MEMORIALS OF 

had never heard of Friends, were nearly united with us in our 
doctrines, being taught by the great Teacher of his people. 
These are of different ranks in the world, but mostly separated 
from the public worships. They appeared hke thirsty ground, 
and received us and our testimony gladly, parted with us in the 
most tender affection, and must long be remembered in near 
fellowship. I do not remember at any time to have sat more 
humbhng and contrlting meetings than those : the praise is the 
Lord's." 

1797. In 8th month, the Yellow Fever having again broken 
out, the inhabitants, following the instinct of self-preservation, 
rapidly removed from the city, and R. J.'s small household was 
left quite alone in " Brook's Court." Although she was pre- 
served from being "afraid withi amazement," she returned an 
affectionate acceptance to Catharine Howell's invitation to spend 
the season of the infection at her country seat at Edgely, on the 
Schuylkill. The day previous to her leaving the city, she fell 
down the stairs and hurt her leg severely. This hurt for a time 
seemed more painful than dangerous, and although unable to go 
abroad, she received and enjoyed the society of m^iny visitors, 
and wrote many letters. With the family and guests, and ser- 
vants, she had religious opportunities, in which " the sensible 
spreading of the' holy canopy," was witnessed. In the exciting 
state of the general mind, various and conflicting reports of the 
state of the city were conveyed to her, but her abode was in the 
quiet pavilion, and she remained peaceful, though by no means 
insensible. 

Ninth month 7th, she notes, " By C. Haines, Sarah Cresson, 
and Leonard Snowdon, we had more comfortable accounts of 
our poor city, yet find that the fever continues. Oh Lord, be 
pleased, for thy mercies' sake, once more to look down with 
compassion upon us, and in thy own way and time deliver and 
spare thy people, the workmanship of thy holy hand. Grant, 
that now thy judgments are in our land, its inhabitants may tru- 
ly learn righteousness ! " 

On First-day, the 10th, remembering that Catherine Phillips 



REBECCA JONES. 237 

went to meeting with her fractured arm in a sling, although she 
was more indisposed, she went to Germantovvn meeting, which 
was large, on account of the funeral of Jonathan Roberts. Af- 
ter an extensive communication from Nicholas Wain, R. J. was 
engaged in the expression of a lively desire for the general in- 
crease of spiritual health, and submission to the Lord's will. At 
the close of the meeting, she had a select opportunity with the 
connexions of the deceased at the meeting house, in which she 
imparted tender counsel and sympathy. This effort proved in- 
jurious to her health, and a violent ague was followed, by high 
fever, and her wounded limb being much inflamed, mortification 
ensued, and amputation was for a while anticipated. Yet, her 
mind being fixed in dependence, she recorded on the ensuing 
day the language of her soul, " Oh Lord my God, great and 
marvellous have been thy dealings with me! My soul is led, 
in the depth of abasement and humility, to bless thy ever adora- 
ble goodness and mercy, and renewedly to query, ' What shall 
I render!'" 

Ninth month 23d, she writes to her kind friend and efficient 
helper, Leonard Snowdon : 

" I have been much with the little company this day assem- 
bled. May the blessed Shepherd be with you, and crown with 
his life-giving presence. I shall esteem it a favor, thy giving 
me an account of what came before you, who from the country 
have ventured in, with any thing that occurs, interesting to a 
poor, wounded, and diseased prisoner, who knows not how the 
present trial may issue. But I am endeavoring after entire re- 
signation to the Lord's will herein. This family are kind be- 
yond description; divers Friends have bsen to see me, and their 
company, with that of dear Wm. Rotch and Martha Routh and 
companion, have several times had a strengthening effect, so that 
I may adopt the language of David, * In the multitude of my 
thoughts within me, thy comforts delight my soul.' " 

Under the same date she notes : " In the afternoon dear Tarn- 
son ClifixDrd walked here, (two miles,) and made us an hour's 
visit. She never appeared so lovely and amiable. She took a 



238 MEMORIALS OF 

most affectionate leave, and though C. H. offered her carriage, 
she chose to walk, J. Hopkins and E. Howell going with her, 
by whose return she sent me a present. Alas, how frail and 
how short-sighted we are ! Little did we think it would be a 
final parting !" This lovely young woman had been R. J.'s pu- 
pil. She was taken alarmingly ill the next day, with the yel- 
low fever, and in a few days died, in such a condition that " they 
were obliged to send to town for a rough coffin, which was put 
on wheels, and brought by two men, and in the evening was 
conveyed by them and tvvo black servants, to the city, for in- 
terment." R. J. felt this circumstance keenly, yet, she says, 
my soul rests satisfied that she is centred in the arms of ever- 
lasting Mercy. We sat silent and sorrowful all the evening, in 
the chamber." 

The following letter was written to the aged and afflicted mo- 
ther of the deceased. 

To Anne Clifford. 

Edgely.lQth mo. 2d, 1797. 
My dear friend, — Such are my affectionate sympathetic 
feelings with thee and thine in the present humbling and afflict- 
ive dispensation, and such has been the tender sohcitude of my 
soul on account of the dear deceased, who, (though I always 
tenderly loved her,) was yet rendered in her last visit here, 
more particularly near to me; and such is my present comfort- 
ing persuasion that she has fallen asleep in the arms of everlast- 
ing Mercy, that I cannot forbear manifesting my friendship in 
this way, being unfit personally to attempt seeing thee, which 
would not be wanting could I even bear the ride : but the state 
of my bruised limb will not allow me to leave my chamber. 
Mayestthou, my beloved friend, though bereaved of so lovely 
and desirable an assistant in thy declining age, experience the 
great Healer of breaches near thy drooping mind, and by the 
consoling influences of his goodness, which has followed thee all 
thy life long, be sustained in the present conflict, and enabled 
with his deeply tried servant Job, to bless his ever adorable 



REBECCA JONES. 239 

name, who hath been pleased (doubtless in unerring wisdom,) 
to take away even one of his choicest temporal blessings. And 
may all her tender relations look up with submission and dedi- 
cation of soul to the one inexhaustible Source of all that is di- 
vinely good. That he may be graciously pleased so to bless 
and sanctify this present grievous affliction, as that they may 
happily witness it to work for them " a far more exceeding and 
eternal weight of glory," is my ardent desire. 
Thy endeared friend, 



(^cat 



The Yearly Meeting occurring during her imprisonment at 
Edgely, her counsel was sought by various friends. Martha 
Routh made her several visits, in one of which they took a 
solemn and final farewell of each other. 

On the 13th of 10th month, her friends were cheered by see- 
ing her seated by the parlor fire side. On the 22d, C. Howell 
notes, " R. J. had a precious opportunity with the whole family 
collected, this evening. Addressing the servants particularly, 
she said, that though they might think that their advantages 
were not equal to others, yet this was not the case, — that they 
were on a level with the King, having the same principle placed 
for their guide that he had, which, when a wrong word was spo- 
ken, reproved therefor," To a colored man who had lived in 
the family more than twenty years, she spoke encouragingly, 
and was afterward fervent in supplication. 

On the 26th of 10th month, having left the house but twice 
since she entered it, she took leave of her kind friends at Edge- 
ly, reciting, as she parted, the words of Paul, "The Lord give 
mercy to the house of Onesiphorus, for he hath oft refreshed 
me, and was not ashamed of my chain ; " adding, that whether 
for the accomplishment' of complete sanctification, their passage 
should be made rugged or smooth, it would not be long before, 
if faithful, they should enter into a peaceful eternity. 

Alluding shortly after, (in a letter to M. Routh,) to the miti- 



240 MEMORIALS OF 

gation of her lameness, she says, with that play upon words, 
(pleasantly turning a trite subject, into seriousness,) which char- 
acterized her conversational apd epistolary style, " What cause 
have I to ivalk softly^ carefully, and humbly, all my days ! I 
wish I could say," she adds, " that a desire of this sort was evi- 
dent in the conduct of the people at large. But alas, I fear a 
greater chastisement will be found necessary, more availingly 
to teach them righteousness." 



CHAPTER XL 



1798—1799. 



Description and character of Rebecca Jones — She sends for T. Har- 
rison to rescue a captured Negress — Shipwreck and arrival of Mary 
Prior — S. Grellet acknowledged as a minister, 1798 — Visits Rah way 
&c — Attends Burlington Quarterly Meeting — Letters to and from 
JaneSnowdon — Goes to Edgely — Letters to Martha AUinson, &c — 
Change in time of Philadelphia Yearly Meeting. 

Rebecca Jones was, in person as in mind, finely majestic. In 
her earlier years, and until her embarkation for England, she 
was slender, but at her return, and for the rest of her days, she 
was much increased in size, and was lame from rheumatism, 
which was contracted in Ireland by sleeping in damp beds. Her 
manner was marked by ease and grace, and (in honor prefer- 
ring others to herself) the gentleness of her Master was conspic- 
uous in her. Yet there was without assumption on her part, a 
queenly dignity, a tout ensemble of nobleness, which drew from 
all the willing tribute of respect. " Here sits our Queen up- 
on HER throne" said Thomas Scattergood, playfully, as he 
entered her chamber in her declining years.* '• Ah^ Thonias^"* 



* This visit of T. S. was during the week of Y. M. in 1814, and the 
last time he was out of his own house. 



REBECCA JONES. 241 

she replied, " sometimes my 'palace y sometimes my prison P 
" Oh, it is well that thou bowed to the convictions of Truth in 
thy early days," said S. Emlen (senior) as they started from her 
dwelling, to walk to the Second-day morning meeting in Chest- 
nut street — " for thou wouldst have been a most powerful instru- 
ment in his Satanic Majesty's hands." And truly the qualities 
which through grace enabled her so conspicuously to " adorn 
the doctrine of God our Saviour," had they remained unsanc- 
tified, would have rendered her influential for evil, and " inju- 
rious," as was Saul of Tarsus before he yielded to the heavenly 
vision. 

She had a striking and significant way of expressing her 
thoughts, which flowed from a mind of great originality and pow- 
er. In her ministry she was particularly clear of expletives, or 
superfluous expressions, and the solemnity of her manner, and 
the genuineness of the gospel message which she eloquently im- 
parted, impressed the audience with a sense that she was ad- 
dressing them under the commission of " the King immortal, in- 
visible," for whom she was an ambassador. At such times, an 
influence accompanying the sound of her voice seemed to fill 
the house, and hence an impression was produced which the 
mere repetition of her words, (especially to those who did not 
know her,) would fail to convey. Her religious communications, 
in which she was not very frequent, were remarkably untinctur- 
ed by what is significantly styled " creaturely activity ; " and 
even the very young were overawed, their attention was rivet- 
ed, and their tender minds were enlightened. So evident was it 
that the Holy Spirit spoke through her. When moved, as 
mouth for the people, to address the throne of Grace, her peti- 
tions were indescribably solemn, and may be classed with the 
" effectual fervent prayers " of the righteous, being signally 
owned by the alone Author of availing prayer. 

Nor was her mission confined to the public ministry of the 
Word. It was a prominent part thereof, to carry the consola- 
tions of the Gospel to the abodes of suffering and the chamber 

of death. And, being " wise and'endued with knowledge," pos- 

21 



242 MEiHORIALS OF 

sessed of social qualities and of personal and mental traits which 
could not fail to impress and influence her associates, she was 
enabled (by keeping her eye upon the holy Pattern) to maintain 
a godly circumspection, and to " show forth out of a good con- 
versation her works with meekness of wisdom." 

Our portrait would be incomplete should we fail to describe 
her as being " in doctrine uncorrupt." Receiving in the fullness 
of his mission the Son and Sent of the Father, the Saviour of the 
world, in whom, whilst yet in the form of a servant, dwelt all 
the fullness of the Godhead bodily, her faith in him was com- 
plete and perfect, and she lived hy faith. Believing with her 
heart unto righteousness, and with her mouth making confession 
unto salvation, and free from the tendency of narrow minds to 
" hold the Truth in parts,''"' she brought exti'aordinary qualifi- 
cations to her aid in yielding to the heavenly call to 

" Negotiate between God and man 
As God's ambassador, the grand concerns 
Of judgment and of mercy." 

She was eminent for pleading the cause of the poor, and for 
acting, as we shall have occasion to notice, as an almoner to the 
rich ; and to those who were in affliction, she was an unwearied 
and tenderly sympathising friend. Being prepared, bj'- her early 
experience to appreciate the privilege of visiting those whose 
goings were established in the way of life and salvation, she had 
resolved, that if ever favored to have a house of her own, it 
should be open to all who wished to seek the society of the seri- 
ous. To this she adhered. Her mansion, though small, was 
freely open to all who desired her society, or who were in dis- 
tress of any kind, from mental or physical causes. She was 
known to be confidential, and the afflicted were bold to open 
freely their situation to this mother in Israel, as she might, in an 
extended sense, be called. Among many instances of the con- 
fidence which was freely reposed in her by all classes, we may 
briefly narrate the folloVving: 



REBECCA JONES. 243 

At the corner of Brook's Court and Frant street, dwelt a 
wealthy West India family, who had two female slaves, a mother 
and daughter. The mother went out to work, always paying 
her master two shillings and sixpence for each day so spent, and 
saving the rest, with the understanding that she might purchase 
her freedom for one hundred dollars. When, by her exertions, 
aided by the generosity of some of her employers, this sum had 
been raised, (being willing to remain in slavery that she might 
obtain the blessing of freedom for her beloved child,) she offered 
to pay the money for the emancipation of her daughter Maria, a 
beautiful girl, with light hair, soft blue eyes, and elegant form, 
who would have passed for a white girl ; but for her, two hun- 
dred dollars were demanded. This sum in process of time was 
raised and paid, and Maria considered herself free, having only 
her master's bare word for it. She continued in the family, and 
was employed in needle work, which she performed with exqui- 
site neatness. Her master's mother being about to return to the 
West Indies, Maria made some elegant dresses, with much orna- 
mental work, for some connexions in the islands, and having 
prepared them, she was sent to the vessel to pack them care- 
fully away. 

She went, with many fears and misgivings, and whilst she 
was in the cabin, the vessel put off from the wharf, and on her 
returning upon deck she was seized, gagged, and pinioned. The 
weeping mother, in an agony of suspense, dared not breathe her 
apprehensions ; but being sent to fill the tea-kettle at a pump of 
soft water, which stood up the court, near Rebecca Jones' kitchen, 
she cast a hurried look to see if she was observed, and slipped 
into the house, where with very little preface she related what 
she knew of the situation of her daughter, and the danger that 
awaited her. R. J. avoided raising her expectations, but imme- 
diately sent our informant to Thomas Harrison, with a request 
that he would come to her. She hastened upon the errand of 
mercy, found him in his shop, and eagerly gave him a condensed 
statement of the case. " Yes — yes" said the philanthropist,— 
" tell her I'll be there directly." And starting at once, with 



244 MEMORIALS OF 

hasty steps, he was with R. J. before the messenger could re- 
turn. He instantly proceeded to the house of the master, and 
opening the door of the parlor, where the family were at tea, 
and placing his stalwart figure in the entrance, with his hands 

on the door posts, he asked — " Is J 1 at home ?" The 

person named, being a man of courtly manners, rose from the 
table with a courteous bow, and replied, " That is my name, 
sir !" " Where's 'Maria 1" asked Thomas, in an authoritative 
tone. " It's none of your business," answered J. I., with a 
greatly altered manner. " It is qiuj business^ and if thou dost 
not tell me, I'll call in the constable to take thee to prison, and 
keep thee there until she is given up." His wife, being alarmed 
at Thomas Harrison's resolute words, called out, " Oh, dorCt 
take my husband to prison — Maria's on board the vessel." 
" Where is the vessel?" " At Race street wharf," she replied, 
in spite of her husband's efforts to silence her, and also gave 
him the name of the vessel. He hastened to the wharf, took a 
boat, and was soon attempting to climb the vessel's steep sides. 
The captain pointed at him a musket, but he, still clambering up, 
coolly replied, "shoot if thou dar'st, thou know'st thou'lt be hang'd 
for it." Reaching the deck, he took the gun from the captain 
as one having authority, broke it over the railing, threw it into 
the river, and hastened to the cabin, where he found poor Maria 
gagged, and the saliva running down her breast — being of course 
unable to swallow. The philanthropist took her to his house, 
kept her till the vessel had sailed, and, when he had obtained 
legal papers of manumission, she was permitted to return to 
her former master, in the capacity of a servant.* 

*ThoTigh Rebecca Jones sought the assistance of Thomas Harrison 
as a well known advocate of the enslaved Africans, and one better 
qualified than most men of that day to apply such protection to them as 
the existing laws could afford, there is no reason to apprehend that she 
would approve of the angry display of authority manifested in the 
breaking of the gun. However offensive the conduct of the Captain. 
we cannot justify this hasty act. 

It may, however be observed, that if the circumstance occurred near 
the time to which the course of the narrative has brought us, the par- 
ties concerned in the attempt at the abduction of the girl, were acting 



REBECCA JONES. 245 

The following entry in her " Poor Will's Pocket Almanac 
for the year 1798," is the only metrical attempt by R. J. which 
has come to our knowledge. 

" And now begins another year ! 
Lest I should fail I almost fear ! 
My resolutions now are good ; 
But, of tiimself hath no man stood. 
To thee, Oh Lord, my soul doth look — 
All other help I have forsook, 
Therefore on thee will I depend, 
My sure, my everlasting Friend !" 
1st Mo. 1st. 1798, 4 o'clock, P. M. 

Albeit her character as a wise woman may be best sustained 
in her prose, and although we admit the New. Year resolutions 
to be better than the poetry, we presume that our readers (most 
of whom are supposed to have tried their own hand at it,) will 
pardon a solitary essay at rhyming, during a life of nearly four 
score years. 

" Fourth month 25th. Our monthly Meeting. Mary Prior 
remarkable in intercession for her own land, that judgment may 
be mixed with mercy, and that three capital crimes, the slave 
trade, war, and tithes, may be removed. Also, that her beloved 
nusband and children may be supported through every conflict. 
A solemn and heart-tendering season." 

* Fifth month 8th. M. Prior in supplication at the Youth's 
meeting for her own land, for Friends there, for the King, that 

in direct violation of law. By the act of 1780, sojourners coming into 
the State, for a temporary residence, and bringing slaves with them', 
could not hold them longer than six months. This would seem to 
have been the character of this West Indian master, and of course 
Maria was, independently of the purchase, legally free. If the mas- 
ter came into the State after 1780, with a view of a permanent resi- 
dence, his slaves became instantly entitled to immediate freedom. And 
even if the girl was legally a slave, the attempt to carry her off in that 
manner, subjected both master and captain, under the law of 1788, to a 
penalty of two hundred dollars. Thomas Harrison was fully acquainted 
with the laws which were designed for the protection of the colored 
race, and was not slow to perceive the power which the violation of 
those laws had put into his hands. Hence the authority assumed at 
the house of the master, and on the deck of the vessel, admits of an 
easy e^jplanation. — Ed. Friends' Review. 

21* 



246 MEMORIALS OF 

evil counsellors may be removed from him, and for her husband 
and children. Nicholas Wain, at the close of the meeting, in 
like manner for our land and rulers, &c. Truly it was a solemn 
time." 

R. J. in another place notes the arrival of Mary Prior, on the 
14th of Third month, after a passage of thirteen weeks, having 
been shipwrecked and taken in by Capt. Macey. 

The ship in which she embarked was a leaky, unseaworthy 
craft, with a drunken captain. Mary Prior being the only female 
on board, a young nobleman, who to this time had been irreli- 
gious and dissipated, attached himself to her with the tenderness 
of a son, and the effect of her religious labors for the conversion 
of his soul soon became apparent. Very early in the voyage a 
steady use of the pumps was found to be necessary, to which 
work our friend stimulated the oft-times discouraged sailors. 
When at length it was found that, with all their labors, the 
water gained upon them, and the vessel continued gradually to 
sink, the hands seemed determined, in utter despair, to relin-, 
quish their efforts. The young man told M. P. that they two 
should sink together, and that his only hope was in clinging to 
her. She urged the men to continue their pumping for tivo 
liours longer^ — and during this interval a sail was seen. A 
distress signal was fired, and when they saw the vessel bearing 
toward them, they continued to fire guns in rapid succession. 

The captain and sailors seemed impressed with the idea that 
the presence of our friend had been the safety of them all, and 
that while she remained on board they would not sink : and 
when the first boat was ready for transferring them to their new 
floating habitation, the captain would not allow her to enter it, 
insisting that she should remain on board till the last person had 
left, saying : " The ship won't sink while she's on board." The 
young man already referred to, took her into his arms, and 
sprang into the boat. She saved nothing but what was about 
her person, except a parcel which Thomas Scattergood had en- 
trusted to her care for his wife. Her certificates were in her 
ocket. 



REBECCA JONES. 247 

Capt, Macey's vessel was well loaded with oil and codfish, 
barely sufficient space being retained for the accommodation of 
the crew. With such an addition, the room was insufficient, 
and they were obliged to submit to great inconvenience, lying 
on the cod fish, and wherever any space could be found. Every 
person on board was necessarily placed at once upon short al- 
lowance. This state of things continued for some weeks, and 
at length they arrived at Philadelphia, landing at the wharf of 
Jonathan Willis, who, having heard of the approach of a vessel 
consigned to him, went to meet it, and noticed, as it neared the 
wharf, a plainly dressed woman on the deck. Being led ashore, 
as soon as she set her foot on the wharf she knelt, and at once 
the whole crew, by whom she was beloved and venerated, reve- 
rently uncovered their heads. A stranger, thinking that she had 
stumbled, took hold of her to raise her ; but the young nobleman 
repelling the attempt, said — "Touch her not." She uttered 
thanksgiving to their Divine Preserver. 

James Pemberton had written to invite her to his house, but 
Jonathan Willis took her home with him to tea. Phebe Pem- 
berton soon came in her carriage and took her to her appointed 
lodgings, where her comfort was provided for with the greatest 
tenderness and delicacy. 

Rebecca Jones, on being informed that evening of her arrival, 
and the attendant circumstances, was greatly affected and over- 
come, M. Prior being her beloved friend ; and she hastened to 
visit her early the next morning. 

On the ensuing Fifth day, M. Prior attended Market Street 
Meeting. The young nobleman, her fellow passenger, hearing 
that she had gone thither, followed her. This was his first 
attendance at a Friend's Meeting. She was led to elucidate im- 
pressively the parable of the Prodigal Son, and her testimony 
being sealed upon his mind, he supposed it to be designed by her 
especially for himself. Visiting her in the afternoon, he wept 
much, and said, — " Oh ! why did you expose me so, before so 
many persons — Why could you not have told me all this 



248 MEMORIALS OF 

in private ?" Of course he was satisfied upon a proper ex- 
planation. 

Seventh month 16th, 1798. — In a letter to Martha Routh she 
says — " Thy being so renewedly and quickly commissioned for 
service in the family, is animating to me, a poor, feeble soldier. 
May ' thy heart endure and thy hands be strong/ whatever 
becomes of me, who am at times in danger of casting away 
that shield which hath covered in many battles. And yet there 
is occasion thankfully to rejoice in hope, that if the dear youth 
who have of latter time been brought under the holy forming 
hand, and have evinced on whose side they are, if these keep 
steady in their love and zeal Godward, that there will be a suc- 
cession 6f standard bearers when our heads are laid low. Of 
this number, I have a lively prospect concerning H. L. Fisher,* 
Sally Cresson, Stephen Grellett, (he is recommended as a min- 
ister,) and some others in this city ahd county, for the preserva- 
tion of all whom I am tenderly solicitous. We are in daily ex- 
pectation of the return of Wm. Savery and S. Harrison, who 
have been absent six years. The rest don't appear to be at 
liberty. May the labor bestowed on your land be productive of 
that increase of righteousness which, doubtless, the great Lord 
of the harvest designs ; but as for us, T fear we are too much 
in Jeshurun's state." 

Early in the Eighth month, 1798, R. Jones and B. C. left the 
city, and pausing at Frankford to visit Nicholas Wain, proceeded 
to Locust Grove, the residence of R. Hartshorne. Having at- 
tended Quarterly Meeting at this place, where R. J. had much 
service with many young persons in private opportunities, they 
went to the Quarterly meeting at Burlington, where R. J. notes, 
" I met a kind, open reception." 

* This friend, subsequently Hannah Logan Smith, is freshly rem em- 
bered by many of our readers. Her husband James Smith (who was 
associated with Leonard Snowdon, Thomas Stewardson, and Johns 
Hopkins as executors to R. J's. last will,) was one who, by his chris- 
tian humility and unblemished integrity, adorned the doctrine and 
confirmed the profession of Truth, and is worthy to be held in remeni' 
brance. 



REBECCA JONES. 249 

At Burlington she writes, Eighth month 26th, to Jane Snow- 
don — 

" The meeting this morning was very large — many of our fel- 
low-citizens are here. Indeed the town seems crowded, and 
more came up to-day. By these we hear heavy tidings, that T. 
Paxson, S. Grellet, and others, are taken down, so that my mind 
is clothed with sadness on account of those who remain in the 
city, and the prayer of my mind is that my beloved friends may 
be supported under this great and renewed trial of faith and pa- 
tience. * * * 

" Oh poor Philadelphia ! is the mournful musing of my spirit, 
by day and by night. May its mournful inhabitants be instructed 
by all with v/hich we have met, in this and former years, and 
turn to him who smiteth, so as availingly to experience our 
only place of defence to be the munition of rocks, where bread 
may be given us, and our water be sure, is the petition of your 
afflicted and affectionate friend and sister." 

Returning to Rahway, she remained till near the time of the 
Yearly Meeting. From this place she wrote, 9th mo. 11th, to 
Leonard Snowdon : 

" As I sat yesterday in Plainfield Meeting (about five miles 
from here) my mental visit to the small exercised remnant in 
our poor city was sweetly refreshing — yea, I seemed interwoven 
with them in sweet supplication to the Lord Almighty, that he 
may be pleased, in his unmerited compassion, to keep you all 
under his holy protecting wing till the present sore calamity be 
overpast ; sustain you above the raging billows, guide you by 
his counsel, and finally crown your conflicting minds with un- 
shaken peace. Perhaps I was brought near in remembrance to 
some of my dear friends at the same time." 

Jane Snoivdon to R. Jones 

Philadelphia, Qth month 2Sth, 1798. 
My dear friend, — I feel so much weakness and poverty that 
I scarcely know how to take hold of my pen to salute thee by 
letter ; nevertheless, I apprehend I feel at times a degree of that 



250 MEMORIALS OF 

love by which the disciples of Christ were distinguished ; and, 
under these impressions of endeared affection, I thought I would 
attempt to offer a few lines for thy perusal ; though I know not 
what I shall say, but hope my pen will speak the language of a 
heart which has been of latter times often broken and contrited, 
before Him who can preserve from the pestilence that walketh 
in darkness, and from the destruction that wasteth at noon-day. 
Was not my harp hung upon the willows, I would endeavor to 
speak of his judgments and his mercies too. This is truly a 
solemn/ time. The Lord, the judge of the whole earth, is speak- 
ing to the inhabitants of this place himself! Oh, that we may 
learn righteousness by the things which we have suffered ! If 
the people should refuse his repeated visitations, and continue 
to rebel against the Holy One of Israel, who could marvel if 
another vial of the Lord's indignation should be poured forth on 
the inhabitants of this land. My soul shrinks at the prospect, 
and prays for a place of rest in the day of trouble. When we 
began to be surprised with the terrors of this awful visitation of 
sickness and mortality, I most ardently desired to be at liberty 
to leave my habitation ; but such a thick cloud overshadowed, 
that I could see no way, either to the right or to the left. When in 
this situation, I often secretly compared myself to a person in 
confinement under bars, locks, and bolts. My bonds were too 
strong to be broken. So thou seest, my endeared friend and 
mother, by what I have written, and by what thou hast heard 
before, that I have been sick and in prison, having nothing to 
boast of except my infirmities. Notwithstanding I felt myself 
thus bound in a place of deep suffering, it was far from me to 
harbor one uncharitable sentiment in regard to those who left 
their dwellings ; so distant is such a thought from me, that, in 
some of the most sorrowful, humiliating seasons which I have 
passed through, I have been thankful in believing that many of 
my nearest and dearest friends were permitted to flee from the 
sufferings which we experienced in our habitations. I desire 
not to murmur, and I think I do not feel any disposition of that 
kind ; neither have we any cause to regret staying here for the 



REBECCA JONES. 251 

Lord hath hitherto dealt very bountifully by us. Oh that we 
may be enabled forever to keep our confidence in the Shepherd 
of Israel, and in the day of trouble endeavor to take refuge under 
his Holy Wing, and then all will be well. 

Believe me to be, as I am, thy truly affectionate friend, 

Jane Snowdon. 

R. J. to Jane Snowdon. 

Burlington, lOth month Uh, 1798. 
Dearly beloved Jane, — Thy precious letter of the 28th ultimo 
would have been replied to before now, but wishing to inform 
thee that I had got to Edgely, prevented an earlier answer. 
However, this morning I seem disposed to acknowledge it from 
hence. The favored situation of thy mind appears almost en- 
viable. It is what I have been laboring for on my own account, 
and, according to my measure ; it seems that through the infi- 
nite condescension of the Shepherd of Israel, I have in degree 
partaken of the like blessed experience ; so that I can in truth 
say, so far from assuming the seat of judgment respecting those 
who have been bound to stay in our poor, afflicted, and almost 
forsaken city, my mind has been so fully yielded in sympathy 
with you, and other dear friends there, that the frequent, yea the 
daily breathings of my sorrowful soul have been, to the Father of 
mercies, that you might be surrounded by his all-protecting arm, 
and upheld thereby in every renewed baptism, both of body and 
mind. So that I rejoice in finding that notwithstanding many and 
great have been the provings of your faith and patience, the shout 
of a King is evidently in your camp ! May this continue to be 
thine and dear Leonard's experience, saith my soul. Our sev- 
eral dear friends, who, for the sake of supporting the precidus 
testimony of truth ventured their lives by going to the Yearly 
Meeting, are also the objects of my near sympathy and tender 
solicitude. Great must have been their conflict to become so re- 
signed ; and great also, I have no doubt, will be their peace, 
whether in life or death. We hear often of them who are in the 
disease. As to myself I may say that I came from Locust 



252 MEMORIALS OF 

Grove desirous of All-wise direction ; but when the time approach- 
ed, my soul became' exceeding sorrowful,' such a cloud of dark- 
ness arose on the prospect that I was obliged to get into the 
quiet, and pray to be preserved from tempting the Lord my God, 
and in the sequel, as the meeting was adjourned, relief was af- 
forded, and I said in my heart, good is the word of the Lord, 
worthy to be trusted in and praised now and for ever ! 

After seventh day please direct to Edgely, where I hope to be 
in the course of next week, there to wait until it shall please the 
Lord to open the way for my return to my little habitation ; 
whenthis is mercifully granted, I trust, my dear friend, we shall 
be enabled mutually to set up our " Ebenezer" under the re- 
newed sense of the all-sustaining power and goodness of the Lord 
Almighty, to whom be thanksgiving and praise, now and for ever. 
Amen. 

Tell your dear children I love them, and think of them often. 

I salute thee and dear Leonard in Gospel affection, and re- 
main vour tribulated sister, 



.^-^ 



As the Yearly Meeting drew near, being still undecided 
w^hether to attend it, she again visited Burlington, making her 
home with her friend Martha Allinson. 

For a day or two both R. Jones and M. A. were under great 
mental exercise, desiring right direction whether they should at 
this solemn crisis go to the annual assembly, and not seeing 
clearly any light upon their movement in the matter ; but when 
at length R. J. proposed to go to Philadelphia, the language dis- 
tinctly presented, " Who hath required this at thy hand ?" She 
informed her hostess of her conclusion to remain, and found that 
she had arrived at a similar decision. 

From Burlington they were taken by James Logan and his 
nephew John Smith, 10th mo. 10th, to Edgely, there to remain 
during the violence of the epidemic. Next day, being the Youth's 
meeting at Germantown, C. Howell notes, " Dear Rebecca had 



REBECCA JONES. 253 

good service, dividing the Word with judgment, and with the 
authority of Truth." The ensuing first day, a large assembly 
being convened, divers of whom were not of our Society, R. 
Jones was strengthened to speak in the demonstration of the 
spirit and with power, to the edifying of many ; beautifully in- 
viting the youth into that strait and narrow but peaceful way, in 
which she had for so many years experienced the faithfulness of 
Him who had called her. 

R, Jones to L. Snowdon. 

Edgely Farm, 10th mo. 12t/i, 1798. 
I wrote a few lines yesterday by Joseph, and now proceed to 
fulfill a commission given me just as I left Burlington by my kind 
hostess Martha Allinson, who desired me when I should write to 
you to present her dear love, and in like manner did our worthy 
friends S. Emlen and J. Hoskins. The family of the latter are 
all in tolerable health, except the young woman who had been 
nurse to S. Scattergood and family. A letter had just reached 
Sarah from her dear Thomas, who appeared to be low both in 
body and mind, and in bonds in the great Metropolis, not seeing 
his way to return with dear Wm. Savery, yet calls himself " a 
poor servant in waiting," — and " desiring that whether he may 
or not be permitted to see his dear mother, wife, and children in 
mutability, the will of _Jiis blessed Master may be done." I 
thought this seemed like his having some sense of what was to 
befall his family. 



R. Jones to Martha Allinson. 

Edgely Farm, 10th mo, 12th, 1798. 
Dear Martha, — I had not time by return of J. S. to give 
thee a line, but am now seated to inform thee that I feel quite 
satisfied in leaving Burlington when I did, as the weather was 

22 



254 MEMORIALS OF 

more favorable then than it has been since, and the Youth's 
meeting for Abington Quarter was held yesterday at German- 
town, which I attended. It was a solemn time though held for 
the greater part in silence. Dear H. L. Fisher had a few sa- 
vory expressions therein. After it concluded, I found myselt 
surrounded with divers of my friends, (fellow citizens and others.) 
and I believe we were mutually glad on seeing each other once 
more in mutabihty. James Cresson, iMary England, Thos. and 
Samuel Fisher and theirs, R. Buckbee, Rebecca Archer, &c., 
&c. wereofihe number, and appeared well. * * » Tell our 
worthy friend S. Emlen that there has been much inquiry after 
his welfare, and that if he sees his way to Germantown, I be- 
lieve he will find an open door. My love to him and his pro- 
mising children. And when thou seest dear John Smith give 
my love to him and his ; the opportunity I had with him in the 
ride down is pleasantly in remembrance, and my desire is re- 
newed on his account, that now having put his hand to the 
plough, he may neither look nor draw back, but, in simple child- 
like obedience, yield to that blessed hand, which will lead him 
about and instruct him, and, oh consoling thought ! " keep as 
the apple of his eye " all his sincerely devoted children, even 
when " the blast of the terrible One may be as a storm against 
his wall." My love is also to dear John and Ann Cox and 
theirs, A. Vaux and others in thy freedom, particularly to I. and 
A. Warder, John Hoskins, S. Scattergood, and all their family. 
I cannot mention all that arise in view. A large share of love 
and gratitude belongs to thee and thy precious flock, whose best 
interest is dear to me. Salute me to worthy Jane Siddons. Ac- 
counts from our poor city are that though there is an evident 
abatement of the disorder, yet in the last few warm days more 
new cases have appeared : but that our friends were all mending. 
Tell dear S. Emlen that I have just received a letter from L — 
R — , who informs me that she has a letter from dear Martha 
Routh (5th mo. 1st, in London) saying " the multitude, which is 
very large, have been fed with food convenient. It hath been 
pleasingly afTecting to behold so great a number of young girls 



REBECCA JONES. 255 

among them, who have not only the marks of outward care, but 
whose countenances bewray them that they are learning ot 
Christ to be meek and lowly in heart." She also mentions be- 
ing at Tottenham on 1st day, and gave an extraordinary ac- 
count of Sarah Lynes. Also a religious improvement in many 
of our young women, and that there were at the Yearly Meet- 
ing, lesser and greater Prophetesses one hundred and fifty. 

I am not furnished with matter for a lengthy letter — hope I 
retain the humbling sense of that mercy and kindness which I 
have so largely shared from the bounteous hand of our heaven- 
ly Father, and am renewedly desirous that through increasing 
watchfulness and holy fear, I may be preserved from swerving 
from his law, revealed in my poor soul with greater power, light 
and certainty, than in any by-past season. Wherefore my con- 
trited spirit worships before him, and humbly craves his blessed 
assistance, to enable me and all his dependent children to hold 
out unto the end. That so, if faithful unto death, the crown of 
eternal life may become our portion for ever and ever. I am, 
dear M , thy affectionate friend, 




Martha Allinson, in a letter to R. J., Eleventh month, 3d, 
1798, says; 

" Dear S. Emlen has been in to see us this morning, and on 
hearing thy message of love says, " tell her the name of Re- 
becca Jones has been pleasant to me these forty years. Tell her 
that I love her as a co-worker in the fellowship of the gospel, 
which I hope will last for ever and ever." 

From Edgely she writes to a friend, Eleventh month 3d : 
" 1 do not think I shall get to my lonely dwelling in the city 
till next week, when, if I am favored once more to arrive thereat, 
I hope it will be under a suitable sense of the Lord's mercy and 
goodness, which, having followed me all my life long, has not 
withdrawn from me during the late awful visitation : and with 



256 MEMORIALS OF 

renewed desire to be kept low and humble in his fear the few 
remaining days that I may be continued in mutability. 

"Many of our friends in the city, and divers who, in support 
of the precious cause of Truth, ventured in at the time of 
the Yearly Meeting, are removed, — and these having been ' faith- 
ful unto death,' have, I doubt not, received ' a crown of life.' 
But it is not for us to arraign the wisdom of him whose we are, 
and who, most certainly, doeth all things well. And therefore 
it becomes us to submit to all his dispensations, and pray for 
strength daily to improve under them, that so, when the like 
summons is sent unto us, we also may be found ready, and, 
through the adorable mercy of our dear Redeemer, obtain an 
admission into the joy of our Lord. 

" Perhaps thou may est have heard that Sarah Harrison, 
Charity Cook and Mary Swett, have gone to Germany and the 
South of France. T. Scattergood is low in London : other 
friends there pretty well. By a letter this day received from 

Sarah Dillwyn, she and George are well, and in London." 

********** 

It may interest our readers to know that during this absence 
from the city the keys of her house were left with two friends, 
who were authorized to take therefrom anything which could 
minister to the comfort of the sick. She had a quantity of fine 
bottled cider, which was much valued as a medicine for the con- 
valescent, and the friends, by her direction, would take a bottle 
and wine-glass and go from house to house, administering 
to each patient as was needed. R. J. was also diligent in 
making collections of money and clothing, which she sent, from 
time to time, to the city, to be judiciously expended for the benefit 
of her suffering fellow-beings. She had singular penetration in 
discovering cases of distress, and delicacy in affording relief. 
And although her friends often placed funds in her hands, with- 
out asking how they were to be appropriated, (confiding in her 
judgment and fidelity,) she was always careful to let it be under- 
stood, when such was the case, that the money she was bestow- 
ins was not her own. 



REBECCA JONES. 257 

The following incident may serve to exemplify that sympathy 
in exercise, free from all confusion which is at times experienced 
by those disciples who, having their fellowship with the Father 
and with the Son, are perfected in true Christian unity of the 
Spirit. At a meeting during the winter of 1798-9, R. Jones 
and her tenderly beloved friend Jane Snowdon kneeled simulta- 
neously, and R. Jones (who did not, till after the meeting, know 
of the coincidence) very solemnly gave utterance to the spirit 
of supplication, which arose as incense from the hearts of the 
assembly ; and Jane Snowdon, remaining upon her knees, felt 
herself fully relieved by the expression of the very prayer wluch 
had been begotten in her own mind. 

Eleventh month 4th, 1798. Being First-day, R. J. had a 
solemn parting opportunity with a miscellaneous assembly at 
Germantown meeting, impressively recommending the perform- 
ance of the vows made in the time of distress. The next day 
Katherine Howell notes : — " This morning Johns Hopkins wailed 
on Rebecca and Bernice to Philadelphia, they having spent just 
a month very agreeably with us. And let me with heartfelt 
gratitude acknowledge, that my own large family, (consisting of 
twenty,) with the circle of my near connexions around me, have 
been favored in a peculiar manner, while sickness, distress and 
death, have visited the habitations of many in the poor deserted 
city of P. : and the sincere desire of my heart is, that we may 
walk humbly, and be enabled to bring forth much good fruit, to 
the praise of our kind Benefactor, who, for this, and for every 
other blessing which we enjoy from his bountiful hand, is indeed 
worthy, now and for evermore." 

" Our Yearly Meeting," R. J. writes to a transatlantic friend, 
*' fell in course in the Ninth month. Divers valuable friends 
from different quarters ventured in, just to adjourn it. Of these, 
ten took the fever, went home and departed — whose loss to the 
church is great. The Yearly meeting was adjourned to the 10th 
of Twelfth month, when we had the company of dear Mary 
Prior and Gervase Johnston. It was large, held the week 
through, and was, in all its sittings, the most weighty and solemn 

22* 



258 MEMORIALS OF 

assembly that I ever remember to have attended." Of the 
friends above mentioned, she says : " They are so clothed with 
love and meekness, that all ranks of the people seem united to 
them ; and truly they have my cordial fellowship and near sympa- 
thy, as beloved fellow disciples and servants of our blessed Master, 
who will, I humbly hope, go with them, and be their exceeding 
great reward." To an English correspondent she writes : 
" The consideration' of the time of holding our Yearly Meeting, 
which was referred to our last Yearly Meeting, was resumed. A 
committee of sixty men and thirty women was appointed, who 
all united in reporting that the third week in the Fourth month 
was most eligible, and that our general Spring Meeting be dis- 
continued ; which was united with by the meeting. So that, of 
course, your epistle will not be answered till that time."* 

First month 9th, 1799. Referring to the prospect of more 
messengers from Great Britain, she says : " Surely the great 
and good Father of his family intends, by thus sending his ser- 
vants to and fro, that divine knowledge shall be increased. So 
bs It, saith my soul. As for me, my dwelling is much among 
my own people. This city is a large field, and much labor, 
o-xercise, watchings and fastings fall to the lot of those who are 
travailing, for its prosperity in divine things. Oh, that I could 
say that we have learned righteouness by all we have under- 
gone ! Then might we hope that the Lord's anger would be 
appeased, and that his hand may not again in judgment visit us 
for our iniquities." 

* The third Second-day in the Fourth month was the time then 
agreed upon for the commencement of the Yearly Meeting ; the first, 
commencing at that time, being held in 1799. That meeting has regu- 
larly convened on the day then fixed, from that time to the present. 
The General Spring Meeting to \rhich R.Jones alluded, was a meeting 
of Ministers and Elders, which the Friends in those stations, from all 
branches of the Yearly Meeting, had held, up to that time, annually in 
the Third month. — Ed. Fiiiends' Review. 



REBECCA JONES. 259 

CHAPTER XII. 

1799. 

Religious visit lo New England, accompanied by Jane Snowdon. — 
Character of Sarah Cresson and R. A. Rulter. — Prophetic warning. — 
Letters. — Family visits «fec. — Returns.— Goes to Edgely. — Interview 
with a Welsh convert. — Arrival of S. Harrison and J. Hall. — Inci- 
dent in North Meeting. 

On the 31st of Fifth month, 1799, R. Jones and Jane Snow- 
don, having been liberated for religious service in New Eng- 
land, left Philadelphia; and reaching Rahway on the 1st of 
Sixth month, they attended meeting there the next morning, and 
crossing the North river from Pawles' Hook, reached New York 
that evening. Next afternoon they embarked on board the 
packet " Eagle," for Newport, having for fellow passengers, 
Joseph Whitall, Gervase Johnson, Jonathan Evans, Ruth Anna 
Rutter, Sarah Cresson, Richard Mott, Abraham Barker, and 
many others. After a passage of forty-nine hours, they reached 
the abode of Thomas and Abigail Robinson, at Newport, on the 
5th, " which," she says, " excited thankfulness in each of our 
minds." The 6th, being Fifth-day, they attended meeting, where 
the service devolved upon Jane Snowdon and Sarah Cresson. 
" It was," says our friend, " a good meeting." " On the 7th," 
she says, " Jonathan Evans, with R. A. Rutter, and S. Cresson, 
went to Conannicut, A. Robinson with them, to attend some 
meetings before the Yearly Meeting. Dear G. Johnson and 
company went to Portsmouth, &c. I felt most easy to stay 
here over First-day. In the evening we had a solemn oppor- 
tunity in the family, in which J. Snowdon appeared in suppli- 
cation. Being rainy, I wrote to C. Hustler and others. Seventh- 
day, the 8th, towards evening, it blew a heavy storm, which 
continued through the nis^ht. Oh, how kind is our blessed 



260 MEMORIALS OF 

Master to his poor servants in that we are not now on our 
passage." 

In the letter to C. Hustler, she says : " I have for my com- 
panion, Jane Snowdon, a niece of dear Sarah Harrison, who is, 
in her gift and manner, enough Hke Sarah to be her daughter. 
She and her valuable husband, Leonard, are py near neighbors, 
and attached to me as to a parent. They are, in short, as I 
often say of a faitfiful friend, a living treasure unto me, for in- 
deed, my dear, I feel in a very stripped state now in my declin- 
ing years, many of my most intimate cotemporaries being re- 
moved from works to rewards ; and oh ! for some who have 
broken the solemn ties of friendship in a way still more to be 
lamented and deplored ! But on this subject I cannot proceed. 
The Yearly Meeting at this place is to commence next week, 
and we have, with the consent and help of our dear friends at 
home, got here timely for it. In the same vessel, came with 
like prospect, dear Gervase Johnson, an innocent, humble dis- 
ciple, much beloved in this land, and Ruth Anna Rutter and 
Sarah Cresson, from our Quarterly Meeting. The former has 
an excellent gift in the ministry, has had an excellent education, 
and in early life indulged much in gaiety, &c., but is now fer- 
vent in spirit, calling others to come, taste, and see for them- 
selves, how good the Lord is.* Sarah Cresson was for several 

* It may perhaps be acceptable to some of our readers, to see a 
brief notice of the worthy Friend of whom R. Jones bears the above 
testimony. 

Ruth Anna Rutter was descended from parents of considerable 
wealth, and highly respectable character, in the view of the world. 
They were not in profession with Friends, and this daughter received 
what was no doubt then considered a liberal education, including the 
accomplishments of fashionable life. But at an early period, her mind 
became deeply and solemnly impressed with considerations respecting 
her future condition. The gayeties of the world soon lost their attrac- 
tive influence, and she became solicitous, above all other considera- 
tions, to seek and to purchase the pearl of great price, the favor of her 
Redeemer, whatever it might cost. Her father, thoiigh he felt and 
manifested a tender attachment to her, yet not comprehending the na- 
ture or depth of her exercises, made her way for a time more trying 
than it otherwise would have been. But the rectitude of her conduct, 
her filial regard to her parents, and the steadiness with which she ad- 
hered to the course to which she felt herself called, at length overcame 



REBECCA JONES. 261 

years under my care, and I often thought she would be more 
than a common member, for she more resembled a Nazarite 
from her birth, than any other of my scholars. She is now 
eminent in gospel service. They have certificates for more ex- 
tensive labor than I have any prospect of, "and our coming to- 
gether' is mutually comforting and strengthening. Besides these, 
within a few years, many choice plants have been raised in and 
near our city, who, if they keep near the preserving Hand, will 
be blessed to the Church, when mine and other heads are laid 

I O \ V ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ 

I am at times mentally visiting and conversing with my fellow 
laborers now in your land. They are different in constitution 
and in their gifts, — but all of them being anointed by the great 
Head of the church, they will, I trust, have their own peculiar 
line of service among you, and, in the Lord's time, return with 
sheaves of solid peace. Of these, none are more dear to my 
best life, than dear mournful Thomas Scattergood, whose re- 



all opposition, and procured from her parents and connexions a de- 
gree of love and respect which could have been obtained in no other 
way. 

Having passed through a series of preparatory baptisms, she came 
forth acceptably in the ministry, about the twenty-second year of her 
age. 

Among the Friends who attended the Yearly Meeting during the 
prevalence of the Yellow Fever, in 1798, Hannah, the wife of Jacob 
Lindley, was one. She was a valuable minister, and in almost all res- 
pects, a very superior woman. Soon after her return from Philadel- 
phia, she was seized with the prevailing epidemic, and in a few days 
removed from works to rewards. About two years after this event, 
Jacob Lindley and Ruth Anna Kutter were united in marriage, and 
she, in consequence, removed within the limits of the Western Quar- 
terly Meeting, where she continued to reside during the remainder of 
her days, respected and beloved by those who knew her, and were ca- 
pable of appreciating her worth. Being, from early life, of a delicate 
constitution, she spent the latter portion of her days chiefly at and near 
home. While her strength was equal to the exertion, she continued to 
attend the meeting to which she belonged, where her voice was not 
unfrequently, sweetly, though feebly raised, in advocacy of the cause 
to which she had dedicated the morning of her day. In the autumn 
of 1810, after a decline of several months, she was quietly released 
from the pains of mortality, being in the forty-third year of her age. — 
Editor of Friend's Review. 



262 MEMORIALS OF 

turn, if it so please his blessed Master to hasten, may have a 
cheering effect on his dear and valuable wife." 

We pass over the brief and cursory notes in the diary, res- 
pecting the time intervening between their arrival and the Yearly 
Meeting, during which our pilgrims were occupied in frequent 
religious service. The testimony of the church was given in 
the following minute, made on Second-day of the Yearly Meet- 
ing — by a subsequent one on Fourth-day, declaring their " com- 
pany and religious services" to have been acceptable, and by 
endorsements upon their certificates. 

MijfuTE OF N. E. Yearlt Meeting. — " Having had the acceptable 
company of our beloved Friends, Rebecca Jones, Jane Snowdon, and 
Sarah Cresson, from Philadelphia, and Ruth Anna Rutter, from Exeter 
Monthly Meeting, Pennsylvania, at this meeting, their respective cer- 
tificates were ready and their gospel labors [were] to our comfort and 
edification." 

In her diary she notes, "First-day, Sixth mo. 1 6th, the 
Yearly Meeting began, and was continued till Fourth-day, the 
19th, when we had a parting meeting with men and women 
Friends, wherein I had, in the fear of the Most High, to pro- 
claim a time, when 

< The Lord shall roar from Zion, 

And utter his voice from Jerusalem, 

And the habitations of the shepherds shall mourn : 

And the top of Carmel shall wither." — Amos 1 : 2. 

The very year succeeding this solemn communication, symp- 
toms of an insubordinate spirit appeared, especially in the East- 
ern Quarters, and confined almost exclusively to select mem- 
bers, so as to induce the appointment of a committee, in the Se- 
lect Yearly Meeting.* In 1801, the defection was still farther 

* This was probably a verbal appointment. Committees were ap- 
pointed by the select Y. M. on account of difficulties in difierent Quar- 
ters, in 1804, 1809, 1816, and 1821, which last was continued, by an- 
nual appointments', for years, and about the same time and in refer- 
ence to the same difficulties, a committee was appointed by the general 
Yearly Meeting. These appointments (although frequently repeated 
from the date last mentioned to the present time) do not appear to 
have ever assumed the character of a standing committee. 



REBECCA JONES. 263 

developed, and numbers who had been regarded as "Shepherds," 
went into manifest ranterism.f This disease was measurably 
put down, and held in check, but even to those who only re- 
member the trials with which Friends of this Yearly Meeting 
were afflicted, about the year 1821, it will not appear strange 
that Rebecca Jones had to deliver the solemn warning to which 
she has thus made a brief reference. Several Friends, who 
were, at the time of R. J.'s visit, in good standing, became vic- 
tims of the fearful storm of ranterism, which carried from the 
fold even some who had been commissioned to " feed the sheep." 
And, although New England Friends were remarkably favored 
to conduct themselves in this trial with meekness of wisdom, so 
that the church, as a body, remained " stedfast, unmovable," 
yet princes, and honorable and devout men and women, were 
clothed with lamentation ; and it is vividly remembered, how 
signally mourning was brought into " the habitations of the 
shepherds^'' on behalf of cherished ones who turned away from 
' the footsteps of the flock of Christ's companions." 

Nantucket^ Seventh mo. 10th, 1799. 

Dea?' Friend, H. Drinker, — I believe thou knowest how to 
Take large allowance for such a poor and almost worn out pil- 
grim, or else I should make a long apology for omitting till now 
to acknowledge the receipt of thy friendly communication of the 
16th ultimo, which both revived and encouraged my companion, 
Jane Snowdon, who, thou knowest, is neither among the for- 



-j- in this year a valuable minister (who in venerable age is still alive 
in the Truth) being on a visit to New England, found himself religiously- 
drawn to visit a select member, and he delivered to him,with great plain- 
ness of speech, a close and searching message of warning and rebuke. 
The object of his concern, laying his hand upon him in a patronizing 
manner, replied, " Dear young man — be thou faithful — I desire thy en- 
couragement." — His visitor, looking at him with surprise, said, — 
" Surelv thou hast not understood me — I have been endeavoring to con- 
vey to thee, ihal thou art one of ihese wolves in sheep's clothing." 
Unable to bear such plain dealing, he left the room in a passion — and 
the character thus given, was, to the sorrow of his friends, but too 
clearly illustrated by his subsequent career. 



264 MEMORIALS OF 

ward nor too confident servants. She has, however, to my 
comfort, been favored to relieve, at different times, her own 
mind, and to approve herself unto the church, " a workwoman 
that need not be ashamed." Thou hast, I expect, through ours 
to L. S., heard how we have got along to this island, where we 
landed, after a passage of seven hours from Bedford, two weeks 
ago, wanting a day ; and the next Seventh-day, came the other 
detachment, with Jonathan Evans, viz : Richard Mott, and his 
companion A. Underbill, R. Rutter, and S. Cresson ; G. John- 
son and Joseph Whitall with us. After attending two Monthly 
Meetings, and the Quarterly Meeting, &c., our young ministers 
have had two special meetings for the public, and are all gone 
to another appointed at 3 o'clock this afternoon, about seven 
miles on the island, amongst a number of people scattered about 
there. Not feeling bound to this meeting, and not being very 
well, J. S. has left me to write, at Wm. Brown's, and she, with' 
many Friends of the town, has gone to the meeting. We are 
all, seven in number, with four of W. Rotch's children, waiting 
for a fair wind to Bedford, — it is now a-head, and so it seems it 
will be, according to the received opinion of Friends here, while 
any thing further is to be done. So that, perhaps, after this 
said meeting to-day, the work may be ended for which we were 
sent hither. But I grow so old, and am, as thou knowest, so 
poor a thing, that I am afraid to judge even for myself, and 
more so for others. Yet the remembrance of the advice of the 
Apostle, " Ye have need of patience, that after that ye have 
done the tuill of God, ye might receive the promise," keeps me 
pretty quiet, and desirous after best direction and help, without 
which, indeed, " we can do nothing." I omitted mentioning 
that G. Johnson and J. Whitall, left us last Fifth-day, on their 
journey further eastward, and that I expect the other Friends 
will go towards Salem, &;c. As to us two females, we hope, 
after tarrying a while at Bedford and Newport, to be at liberty 
to return home. But hearing a report, which was current here 
last evening, of the yellow fever having broken out again in our 
poor city, has made us sad. If it should prove fatal, lamenta- 



REBECCA JONES. 265 

ble indeed will our situation be, but doubtless there must be a 
cause therefor, which I as an individual do most sincerely de- 
sire to inquire into, and to be enabled, for one, to endeavoi after 
Its removal, that so the sorrowful effects may cease. Alas ! 
alas ! for our once flourishing city ; she that was once great 
among the nations, and princess among the provinces ! Is she 
to become a hissing, a by word, &c ? It is a subject I cannot 
pursue, and therefore beg that ray poor mind may be stayed 
under this persuasion, that the Judge of the whole earth will do 
all things right. 

I have felt, though absent in body, as I ought to do in spirit, 
on hearing of the departure of our friend and brother, James 
Cresson. We had a sweet opportunity together the second day 
before I left home, wherein my persuasion was settled that with 
him all would be well ; and yet his removal will be a loss to 
society, as is that of dear Joseph Delaplaine, to New York. 
Thy account of West Town school is very acceptable. I lately 
wrote to C. Hartshorne, and hope that she, with others there, 
will not faint nor grow weary. If thou writes to her or dear 
Rebecca Archer, please, with my love, tell them so. I have 
since received a letter from dear T. Scattergood, dated Dover, 
Second month 13th. He does not know his wife's situation ; 
says nothing about returning ; desires his love to H. Dririker 
and his, and M. Sandwith. He mentions a memorable oppor- 
tunity he has had at Foulkestone, where were several goodly 
soldiers, concerning whom he makes this remark : " Oh, the 
sweetness, meekness, and love, that were to be felt in their 
minds, though to appearance mighty men ! Great has been the 
sympathy and love that I have felt for this class of people, and 
I should not wonder if they are numbered among the first fruits 
of a precious visitation, approaching towards this favored island. 
The Lord in his love hasten it I" 

J. Evans, R. Rutter, and S. Cresson, unite with me in love 
to thee. Thine to them was encouraging. Please offer mine 
to our friends J. Pemberton, M. Cresson, dear K. Howell, 
and others in thy freedom. I note thy brotherly hint about 

23 



266 MEMORIALS OF 

" nooks and corners," and hope to profit by it, but dear Henry, 
thou knovvest we old folks cannot see as in the days of youth, 
and therefore it is a comfort that there is a lively prospect of a 
succession among the dear youth. This is indeed rejoicing lo 
my poor mind. May they be kept down to the immortal Root 
in themselves, and preserved as fruit bearing branches in the 
heavenly vine, is my prayer for them. Report says our dear 
S. Emlen is coming to New York and Newport. He will be 
gladly received there, but if he is long about it we may miss 
his company. Our love to him. 

And now, feeling the renewal of that love which in earlier 
life was our encouragement, and desiring it may now, towards 
the evening of our day, become our song of rejoicing, I therein 
conclude, and remain thy sincerely obliged friend and sister in 
the truth, 

^^-^ 

A letter received about this time by R. Jones and J. Snowdon, 
contained a message from Samuel Emlen Sr., expressive of his 
continued gospel fellowship, and of his trust that their " expe- 
rience of the things of God in mercy and salvation, does in 
the silence of all flesh often authorize to hear his own ancient 
assertion by the Prophet, Ye are my luitnesses saith the Lord^ 
that I am God. Thus," he continued, " qualification is derived 
to publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and to tell of his own 
wondrous works, which continue to be not only marvellous, 
but unspeakably so, in the eyes of a humblingly baptized 
remnant, who love him above all, and sincerely desire that his 
ever adorable name may be magnified in them, through them, 
and upon them, though themselves may be frequently abased 
even as to dust and ashes." 

To resume the diary ; she proceeds ; — " During the holding 
of the Yearly meeting, I had some private religious oppor- 
tunities, and close labor, and some open service. So had 



REBECCA JONES. 267 

dear Jane, and Gervase Johnson, the band of young ministers, 
&c." 

On the 20th, they went with Wm. Rotch and other friends, to 
Bedford. On the 22d they had a satisfactory meeting at Long 
Plains, and on First-day two laborious meetings at Bedford. 
Various meetings are noted, and the several travellers appear 
frequently to have diverged in various directions, and to have 
occasionally rejoined each other. " Dear Jane," she notes, " is 
in her place, and is helped, from time to time, in the exercise of 
her gift, which makes way in the hearts of Friends. * * Dear 
Joseph Whitall has a precious gift, and is much beloved by his 
friends." Having attended Bedford Monthly meeting, to their 
comfort, on the 26th they all went in a packet sloop to Nan- 
tucket, " where my old friend S. Barney was waiting to see me, 
and we mingled tears of thankfulness." Of the Monthly Meeting 
of Nantucket, and that for the Northern District of Nantucket, 
she says : " both these were seasons of deep exercise and close 
labor, which, however, yielded peace to my mind." R. J.'s 
labors on this island were extensive, and her exercises in the 
numerous meetings she attended, deep and painful. 

*' Seventh month 3d. — The Quarterly Meeting here ended 
yesterday. It was^ on the "whole, a season of favor, as well as 
a time of deep exercise throughout; so that we have fresh occa- 
sion to ascribe greatness, with glory, to our blessed Helper and 
everlasting Friend. * * I dont yet see my way for a peace- 
ful escape, so we must wait in the patience till we can move in 
the clearness towards Bedford, and thence take a fresh lookout. 
It is no small matter to be brought such a distance from home, 
and it will be a comfort, if favored to get there again, to look 
back without regret or condemnation." 

On the 10th, of Seventh month,' 1799, they all took packet, 
and being driven ashore at Wood's Hole, did not reach Bedford till 
next afternoon. After several meetings in the vicinity, she 
mentioned to her friends on the 13th a weighty prospect of 
visiting the families at Bedford, and received their sympathy and 
encouragement. On the 14th, being First-day, she had the 



268 MEMORIALS OF 

afternoon meeting postponed to five o'clock, for tlie more gene 
ral gathering of tlie inhabitants : and next day " began the 
arduous task of visiting families in Bedford," accompanied b]y 
William Rotch and a female friend. " We set out," she writes, 
"in a low, poor and abased situation of mind, and were helped 
through the day by the Father of mercies." They appear to 
have visited forty-eight families, and to have been occupied till 
the 23d, when, she says, " we closed with a sitting with two 
schools, which were indeed crowning opportunities. Under the 
humbling sense of gracious daily help vouchsafed, our minds 
were enabled to ascribe the praise to our blessed Shepherd, who 
is now and forever worthy." 

Having completed this service, she was careful not to leave 
New Bedford prematurely, " desiring that the Lord may be 
pleased to be near us in our return, even as he condescended to 
conduct hither in safety." She took a solemn leave of Friends 
at their meeting on Fifth-day the 25th, "under the firm belief 
that if those among them who are mercifully visited, do not 
progress in the Christian path, it will be owing to their not 
minding the day of small things." That day occurred several 
" precious opportunities," and in the evening many young 
Friends and others, who convened at the house of her host, 
Wm. Rotch, were " encouraged to dare to stand alone in the 
most important pursuit." Next morning was a " uniting melt- 
ing season" with many friends who thronged around her at her 
lodgings, and taking leave of them, our friends proceeded 
in W. Rotch's carriage to T. Robinson's at Newport. At this 
place she was " deeply humbled" in several meetings. " Poor 
Newport !" she writes, " yet a small remnant therein claim our 
sympathy." Although she does not record having entered on a 
regular family visit, either here or on Nantucket, yet a memo- 
randum, furnished by a friend, shows a list of persons visited at 
each place. In the evening of Fourth-day, the 31st, under a 
prospect of their sailing for home next morning, divers friends 
visited them at their lodgings, and being divinely favored with 
that influence, which, among Friends, is significantly called " a 



REBECCA JONES. 269 

covering," R. Jones was engaged in earnest solicitude that they 
might "be prepared to meet, with suitable resignation, the re- 
maining portion of suffering, which, in divine wisdom, might be 
meted out to them, in order for their increasing sanctification 
and fitness for an entrance, when done with time, into the abodes 
of purity and bliss." Next morning our friends felt most easy 
to permit the vessel to sail without them, and again " had close 
service" at meeting. Next day she notes — " We were thank- 
ful in being with our dear friends at Newport." On Seventh- 
day, the 3d of Eighth month, after a parting religious opportu- 
nity, in which J Snowdon was fervent in prayer, they embarked 
with Captain Bliss — but rain coming, the wind shifting, and the 
sea becoming very rough, their captain had the candor to pro- 
pose returning, after they had, in several hours, progressed but 
ten miles. 

" Eighth month 4th — First day. — Attended a silent meeting in 
the morning — had some service for our blessed Master in the 
afternoon meeting, wherein dear Jane was marvellously helped 
under a mistake of the people, who rose when she stood up; 
but, when they became seated, she was strong in the work. At 
Samuel Thurston's in the evening, a morsel of true bread was 
handed and broken. On coming home, we found divers young 
friends, and I had a word of counsel to administer." 

" 5th. This being our Quarterly Meeting in Philadelphia, my 
mind was much with them there, and I trust that we may be 
brought into their remembrance for good." 

Being still detained by strong head winds, they attended the 
Quarterly Meeting at Portsmouth, on the 7th and 8th, which, R. 
J. notes, " was large and solemn — in which I was enabled to be 
honest in a close and searching testijnony, especially to the 
young men, a large number of whom where there." 

On the 9th, attended to the last by many friends, they went 
onboard " The Two Sisters," where, having dinner sent them 
from. T. Robinson's, they all partook together in love, after 
which ensued a renewed and tender leave taking, and R. J. 
finally left the New England shore, where resided many to 

23* 



270 MEMORIALS OF 

whom she was bound in close affection. On the 14th, they cross- 
ed the North river, having the company of Stephen Grellet, to 
Rahway, where they met Jonathan Evans, R. A. Rutter, and S. 
Cresson, " and we were," R. J. says, " mutually glad on see- 
ing each other, after a separation of several weeks for the work's 
sake. They proceeded homewards next morning, and we staid 
to attend the Quarterly Meeting. On the 16th came dear S. 
Smith, R. Wright,' &c. — Oh how iron still sharpens iron ! In 
the select Quarterly Meeting this day, some very painful exer- 
cise was experienced ; the result was, that S. Smith had the 
Select members for Shrewsbury together, and desired R. Wright, 
J, Snowdon, and myself, might be present. He relieved his 
mind." 

After attending Quarterly Meeting, and the meetings on First- 
day, our friends proceeded homeward, pausing at Brunswick, at 
R. White's near Princeton, at Bristol, Frankford, &c., and reach- 
ed Philadelphia, where great alarm respecting the yellow fever 
prerailed. " I was greatly fatigued," she says, " poor in health, 
also in great exercise of mind on coming into our poor city ; yet 
humbly thankful for Divine help and preservation, which we 
had abundantly experienced in this trying journey, having tra- 
velled near one thousand miles, and been from home near three 
months. In a sense of the Lord's goodness, we had gratefully 
to acknowledge, hitherto the Lord hath helped us ! Blessed for- 
ever be his high and holy name !" 

The fever continuing in Philadelphia, she complied, on the 
23d, with an invitation to visit her friends at Edgely. To this 
salubrious retreat she was followed with abundant evidences of 
the love of her friends ; many thronging from the city and vi- 
cinity to enjoy the rich treat of her companionship. Rejoicing 
with those who rejoiced, and sympathizing with the weepers, 
her lively feelings alternated as her suffering friends and ac- 
quaintances were raised from the bed of languishing, or removal 
from the mutations of time. 

Being much confided in, on account of her wisdom, energy 
and benevolence, she was selected by numbers as their almoner, 



REBECCA JONES. 271 

and about this date we perceive notes of sums lodged in her 
hands by fourteen individuals " for the relief of the worthy poor." 
From the fund thus created, her own contribution was not with- 
held. 

On the 25th of Eighth month, she mentions a pamful season, 
in service at Germantown Meeting, and Catharine Flowell notes 
that it was " opened by a young man ; but R. J., like a skilful 
workman, waited till the flocks were gathered before attempting 
to water them. She then recommended our being quiet, and 
minding our own business, and urged those to whom, at the 
eleventh hour, a gracious invitation was extended, to double their 
diligence." 

9 Mo. 9th— 1799. " A friend informs me that he finds that 
in '93 — in the date of 7th day last, there were but 18 deaths — 
but by the returns made last 7th day, there were 31. So 
that we cannot yet promise what progress the disease may 
make after this time. Oh, tis indeed an awful time ! — May we 
all so bow in this the day of renewed judgment, as renewedly 
to experience the joyful return of the day of mercy and of 
God's salvation." 

On the afternoon of Ninth month 13th, she drove into the 
lawn of her friend Thomas Fisher, near Germantown. A 
Welchman, who was engaged in levelling the gravel way, 
caught a glimpse of our friend as she alighted, and, leaning on 
his spade he stood earnestly gazing at her, till satisfied at 
length in his joyous recognition, he threw down his implements, 
ran to her, and, taking her by both hands, exclaimed enthu- 
siastically, " Yes — ' tis her ! — ' tis her ! — ' tis Rebarkar Joanes !" 
She shook his hand kindly, remarking, " I do not recollect 
i/iee." "Why doosentah ?" he replied in surprise — " Thoo 

and Sarah Groobb had an appointed meeting at ," 

[a market town in Wales, not remembered.] " I thowt I 
would go and hear what the Quaker woman could sah. Why, 
dontah remember me ?" he continued with increased earnest- 
ness — " Why I sot facint'a, and thoo lo^d at me all't time 
thoo wast preearchin ! And oh ! a brave meeting it was !" 



272 MEMORIALS OF 

T. Fisher, and our informant listened with much interest. 
This man was a convert of Rebecca Jones, and the communi- 
cation referred to having reached the witness in his breast, he 
had supposed himself to be as much the object of her special 
notice and observation, as he was of that Divine love which had 
made her the instrument of good to his soul. Being thus 
awakened, he became an attender of Friends' meetings, and 
was, before leaving his own country, received into membership. 
He had never seen R. J. except on the above occasion ; but, 
after the interview now narrated, she frequently noticed him. 

On the 15th, (First day,) T. Fisher took her to Frankford 
Meeting, which she notes as " a large and solemn meeting, 
many citizens attending. N. Wain much favored upon the 
subject of the preparation of wills." On sixth day following, 
though indisposed, she went through a storm to Germantown 
Meeting. "I sat meeting with pain," she says, " yet I was glad 
that I was there, having a word of encouragement to the few 
who were present. Ralph Smith departed quietly this morning 
at his son Benjamin's, in a good old age. He had been lately 
received a member in our North Meeting ; seemed in a happy, 
resigned 'state, and for near eighteen months was in the belief 
that he should die about this time, and had told his children so. 
Surely he must have been divinely favored with such an intima- 
tion. On the evening of this note, Rebecca Jones and her 
friends at Edgely were conversing about Ralph Smith, when 
some one said that this was the day which R. S. thought that 
he would not survive. His presentiment being generally known 
among his friends. 

Her own religious communications are rarely mentioned in 
her notes, even when she records those of other laborers ; and 
we find from other sources that she was often engaged in a 
remarkable manner, when from the mention of the occasion in 
her diary, we might infer that her part of the work had been in 
silence. 

During her tarriance in the neighborhood of Germantown, 
she made frequent visits of sympathy to the sick and afflicted. 



REBECCA JONES. 273 

in which, at times, she was enabled to communicate to them 
of those unsearchable riches which alone could be of avail to 
them in their extremity. Her daily entries frequently concluded 
with, '■'-Read the scriptures in the evening /" and the frame 
of her mind is instructively indicated by the following memo- 
randum — " Lord keep and preserve us humble and watchful, 
is my constant prayer /" 

At Germantown Meeting, Tenth month 6th, she was led to 
speak instructively on the happy state of those who had the 
Lord for their friend ; who would not forsake them in the time 
of their trouble, but would be to them nearer than a brother. 
On the 9th she says, " This day, and the rest of the week, I 
was under deep exercise on account of a beloved sister in Ire- 
land." Sixth day, the 11th, "Being the anniversary of my 
being taken with the yellow fever in '93, my soul was solemnly 
humbled before the Lord, for his unmerited mercy under that 
trial." 

Edgely Farm Tenth month I9th, 1799. 

My beloved friend, Martha Allinson, — Many times during 
my sojourning here, under the hospitable roof of my dear friend, 
Catherine Howell, have I thought of my dear friends at Burling- 
ton, and reflected on the time spent with thee and thine last 
year on a similar affecting occasion, with the desire to salute 
thee with a few lines by way of affectionate enquiry after your 
welfare, especially as frequent reports have announced the in- 
disposition of our valued friend and brother, S. Emlen. Be 
assured that my former intentions, as well as the present sen- 
sation of love, are truly sincere. Please offer the salutation of 
my sisterly affection to S. E. and his children, J. Hogkins and 
his family, J. and A. Cox, and all thy precious flock. 

My own health, since returning from New England, has 
been various, yet thankfulness covers my mind to the great 
Author of all good, that I have been thus kindly accommodated 
and cared for, and enabled mostly to attend Germantown Meet- 
ing. I have now a hope, that our citizens who have been scat- 



274 MEMORIALS OF 

tered abroad, may be permitted to return in safety, and, oh 
saith my soul, that we, myself especially, may return with fer- 
vent and renewed desires, to walk more humbly in the path of 
obedience to the law and commandments of Him who is indeed 
justly styled " the dread of nations," and " Prince of Peace ;" 
that so, further chastisement for disobedience and ingratitude 
may not become necessary. 

We have cause for thankfulness that our beloved friends Sarah 
Harrison and John Hall, have arrived in safety. They have 
left T. S. behind in the field of deep exercise. * * * 

I have made several attempts to visit Westtown School, but 
as yet have not effected it ; however, I hear that they are all 
pretty well. May thou and I, dear Martha, through all oui; 
trials and conflicts, be enabled to hold out in faith and patience 
unto the end, and finally obtain an admission into that rest 
which is undisturbed and full of glory, is the desire of thy affec- 
tionate friend. 



.^2^ 



She returned, 10th Mo. 25th to her home in Brook's Court, 
which was in those days characterized by neatness and beauty, 
and afforded a most desirable residence. Those who do not re- 
member the character of this Court more than thirty years ago, 
would be likely to regard as extravagant the language of those 
who describe it as it really was. 

The several branches of the family from whom it took its 
name and who then occupied it, were on terms of the pleasant- 
est intimacy with R. J. One of these, Lydia Brook, was espe- 
cially beloved by her, and is remembered by the Compiler as a 
lady of extraordinary loveliness. " Indeed she is a precious wo- 
man," said our friend. One of the few survivors of the Brook 
family recently visited the Court, — and as she stood before the 
house of R. J. (then in process of demolition) the dear voice of 
its illustrious occupant seemed to salute her, in these lines, 



REBECCA JONES. 275 

which she had taught to her as she stood in infancy beside her 
knee. 



"Give first to God the flower of thy youth — 
Take for thy guide the blessed word of Truth — 
Adorn thy soul with Grace — prize Wisdom more 
Than all the pearls upon the Indian shore." 

There are still many who, who in reference to the subject of 
our memoir, can apply the words, " She being dead yet 
speaketh.". 

Her beloved friends Sarah Harrison and John Hall, having 
previously arrived from England, " the next day," she says, 
" after I got home, I went down to Thomas Harrison's, where 
dear Sarah received me with open arms. Language failed us 
for a space, and we silently mingled tears of tender affection to 
each other, and of gratitude to the Father of Mercies, in the 
humbling persuasion, that during a separation of seven years, in 
which time we had been closely and variously tried, we had 
been upheld and sustained by the special mercy and goodness 
of our holy Head and High Priest, who now on rejoining, enabled 
us to set up ourEbenezer. John Hall, who, on seeing me en- 
ter T. H[arrison's parlor, knew me instantly, felt like a beloved 
brother. He staid a few weeks in our city, passing his time in 
our meeting, mostly in a silent travail ; and proceeded on a 
journey southward, being accommodated with Stephen Grellet a 
steady young minister, for companion. Dear S. H. appears in 
possession of the blessed reward of peace." 

One First-day morning, in the North Meeting, a meek spirit- 
ed and valuable woman Friend arose, and having stood for some 
minutes, R. Jones also stood up, and remained for a short time, 
solemnly silent, neither of them having observed the other, un- 
til R. J. commenced a very impressive and weighty discourse, 
when the former instantly sat down. R. Jones knew nothing of 
the circumstance till it was mentioned to her in the evening, 
when she was much affected, even to tears, fearing lest she 



276 MEMORIALS OF 

might have crushed or hurt a tender plant of her heavenly Fa- 
ther's own right hand planting. She immediately put on her 
cloke and bonnet, and went to see the Friend, who informed her, 
that she (R. J.) had fully expressed the exercise which had been 
upon her own mind, and that she believed that the surrender of 
her will, in thus standing upon her feet, had been accepted. 



CHAPTER XIII. 

1799.— 1801. 

Death of S. Emlen, senior, and his presentiment of it — Notice of S. 
Emlen, junior, and wife — Gervase Johnson — Letters — Stop in her 
mind against recruiting her shop — Death of J. Hartley and the inti- 
mation thereof afforded to her — Reflections on the source of such 
intimations — Rich Cheese — H. Barnard. 

On the 14th of Twelfth month, 1799, Samuel Emlen paid Re- 
becca Jones a visit, which proved to be their final interview. 
Noticing an almanac for the approaching year, he took it up, 
and placing it near his eye, — being, as is well remembered, very 
nearsighted, — he said emphatically,— " Eighteen Hundred! 
^^ I have said, I shall not live to seeity She replied, — "Oh 
Samuel, dont say so ! " He responded, " Rebecca— /Aaz^e said 
it — remtmher the agreement which we made years ago, that the 
survivor should attend the other^s funeraV'^ On the following 
day he was engaged in a First-day meeting in a lively testimo- 
ny, and finding himself ill he leaned, in great physical weak- 
ness on the rail before him and repeated with touching pathos 
the following stanza from Addison — 

« My life, if Thou preserv'st my life, 

Thy sacrifice shall be, 
And death, if death should be my doom, 

Shall join my soul to thee." 



REBECCA JONES. 277 

The meeting broke up-^he was taken to a neighboring house, 
and, when a little revived, to his home. The next third day he 
assembled with the Church for the last time, and preached from 
the text, " This is the victory that overcometh the World — even 
our faith." 

Soon after this he was confined to the house with indisposi- 
tion, during which, with " tears of holy joy," he was enabled to 
triumph through faith, and give high praises unto Him whom he 
had eminently served. " The main bent of my mind," he fer- 
vently exclaimed, " has been to serve thee, oh God, who art glo- 
rious in holiness, fearful in praises. I have, I am sure, loved 
godhness and hated iniquity ; — my petitions to the throne of 
Grace have been accompanied by faith." "All I want is Hea- 
ven ! " he said as his end drew nigh ; and having repeated part 
of the Lord's prayer, he added, " Oh how precious a thing it is 
to feel the Spirit itself bearing witness with our spirits, that we 
are his ! " Impressed with the awfulness of the invisible world 
upon which he was about to enter, he said to those around him, 
" I entreat that nothing be done to me, except what I may re- 
quest, that my mind may not be diverted, that my whole mind 
may be centred in aspiration to the throne of Grace." Oa the 
morning of his last day of probation, about 3 o'clock, he asked 
what was the hour, and being informed he said, " The conflict 
will be over before five." His last, or nearly his last words, 
after an apparent suspension of life, were, " I thought I was 
gone — Christ Jesus receive my spirit." And thus, at 41 o'- 
clock on the morning of Twelfth month 30th, this remarkable 
man and illustrious ambassador for Christ, quietly departed to 
be with him who said, " Father, I will that those whom thou 
hast given me, be with me where I am, that they may behold 
my glory which thou hast given me." 

Before day break that morning, Rebecca Jones and her B. C, 
were conversing about S. Emlen, and of a singularly pleasant 
dream * respecting him, when a loud knock was heard, and the 

*This dream may, without attaching importance to it, interest the 
reader. R. J.'s young companion, in the illusion of slumber, thought 

24 



278 MEMORIALS OF 

window being opened, Samuel Emlen's Roman Catholic ser- 
vant, Larry, called out, " My blessed 'master'' s gone to Hea- 
ven /" He was buried on New Year's day, 1800, his remains 
being taken to the Market street House, where Nicholas Wain 
and another Friend were solemnly engaged in the gospel minis- 
try. Rebecca Jones, although an invalid, was true to the agree- 
ment, which she had made with her honored friend. 

Fourth month 2d, 1800, R. Jones notes in her book of busi- 
ness accounts, " Memorandum, that having felt a stop in my 
mind against recruiting my shop, and having £200 in cash, /I 
placed it on interest." 

She was on this day engaged in writing an order for goods 
to the above amount, to be purchased for her by a sea captain 
who resided next door to her, and was about to sail, intending, 
as was her wont, to accompany the order with the money. She 
paused, and laid down the pen, and remarked to our informant, 
that she believed she had better not send. This vessel was 
wrecked and lost on its return voyage. The crew were saved. 

How affecting is it, and what cause of humble gratitude, to 
have evidence that he who said of old, " shall I hide from Abra- 
ham that thing which I do V — is still a " Wonderful Coun- 
sellor" to those who, walking dutifully in faith and simple obe- 
dience, have become quick of apprehension, in recognizing the 
st'H small voice. Truly is the wisdom which cometh from 
above " profitable unto all things." 



herself on Market street wharf, and under the necessity of going to a 
ship which lay in the channel, and to which there was no access but 
by a plank which was tossed about by the waves. As she clung to the 
plank, expecting to be washed off and lost, she saw Samuel Emlen, 
semor, coming, clothed in white flowing robes, Avith an indescribably 
beautiful and lustrous appearance. Passing by her, he stepped light- 
ly along on the water to another ship, which was under full sail, going 
down the stream — he ascended the side, and the ship was immediately 
out of sight, and she was left struggling. With this she awoke, and 
the messenger arrived whilst this dream was the subject of conversa- 
tion with R. J., both of them being impressed with the belief that he 
was gone. As nearly as could be ascertained, the dream and the de- 
cease of S. E. were simultaneous. 



REBECCA JONES. 279 

By the hands of her beloved friends Samuel Smith and Rich- 
ard Jordan, she sent letters to several of her transatlantic friends. 
To the latter she gave a general letter of introduction, and in 
a letter to C. Hustler, Fifth month 23d, introducing him, she 
says : 

" In Richard thou wilt meet simplicity, wisdom, and honesty 
combined." " They are brethren," she adds, " beloved by me. 
That Israelite indeed,* Gervase Johnson, who returns with them, 
leaves us under the impression of love and unity in our minds. 
May the Shepherd of Israel go with them, strengthen them in 
their labors, and bless their endeavors to the churches." * * 
" Thou wouldst feel for us when the tidings reached thee of the 
happy translation of our dear brother and father in the church, 
Samuel Emlen, whose company is missed by none more than by 
myself, as he often visited my little habitation, and as often confirm- 
ed Solomon's assertion, "as iron sharpeneth iron," &c. Being 
confined with a hurt during his illness, I did not see him after 
the 14ih of Twelfth month, when he, being poorly, told me that 
he should not live till New Year's day. And according to his 
prospect he was interred on the first day of 1800. His son 
Samuel and his precious wife, who reside near Burlington are 
a very valuable, steady couple." 

[It is a coincidence perhaps worthy of being mentioned in 
this connection that this Samuel Emlen, Jr., who was a valued 
and beloved Elder in the church, and a man of remarkable 

* Among the trials which this "Israelite indeed" passed through in 
this country, there was one which must have deeply wounded his pa- 
ternal sensibility. He had a son. who had emigrated to America, and 
taken up his residence in Philadelphia. Some time previous to the 
arrival of the father, this son went with some other young men to the 
Schuylkill, in the vicinity of the city, to bathe. Soon after entering 
into the water and before be had advanced manj?- yards from the shore, 
he was seized with the cramp and sank. All the efforts of bis com- 
panions, to save him, proved unavailing, and several days elapsed be- 
fore the body was recovered. The father, ignorant of these circum- 
stances, came to this city expecting to meet this long absent son : and, 
if my recollection is to be relied on, he went to the place of his resi- 
dence immediately upon landing. There, instead of embracing the 
object of his paternal affection, he met with the sorrowful tidings of 
his sudden removal — Editor of Friends' Review. 



280 MEMORIALS OF 

watchfulness, had in the latter weeks of his life a presentiment 
that he should not live to see the approaching new year. He 
died in great peace in Burlington N. J. 12th mo. 29th, 1837. 
The day previous he was visited by the venerable and patri- 
archal John Cox, who in a solemn address to his dying kins- 
man repeated the text " I am the Resurrection and the life — 
whoso believeth in me, though he were dead yet shall he live, — 
and whoso liveth and believeth in me, shall never die," — con- 
necting with it the passage in Revelation, " Blessed and holy 
is he who hath part in the first resurrection, on such the second 
death hath no power." — These passages lived with S. E. during 
his few remaining hours, and to the very last, even when the 
full power of utterance had failed him, he made repeated efforts 
to quote them. 

His wife Susanna Emlen (daughter of Wm. Diilwyn) to 
whose singular loveliness and purity of character repeated 
reference has already been made, died in Burlington 11 mo. 
24th, 1819. 

A valued minister who knew her well, writing soon after the 
event thus commemorates her worth. " The writer has only 
to regret the inadequacy of her pen to portray a character which, 
whilst strictly faithful to Truth, should, not be regarded by 
those who were strangers to this inestimable woman as the 
language of panegyric. Possessed of all mild and endearing 
virtues ; gentle, benevolent, good, — she was the delight of her 
friends and a treasure of inestimable worth to her husband and 
relatives. The spotless purity of her mind, and the sweetness 
of her whole character, appeared so entirely without alloy, that 
she seemed like an inhabitant of a more blessed sphere. 

« Let down in cloudy throne to do the world some good." 

And a bright and beautiful example has she been to all who 
have witnessed her patience and resignation under the most se* 
vere and protracted suffering. She had a very solid judgment 
united to great delicacy of taste — her disposition was remark- 
ably kind and tender, she was serious whilst cheerful and social, 
and her lovely countenance beamed with soft intelligence. 



REBECCA JONES. 281 

But — she has gone — and her death is the withdrawing of a 
niost radiant and beautiful orb that gladdened and enlightened 
the circle of her family and friends, yet the triumphant hope 
of glory through the blessed Redeemer is felt over all."] 

To her valued friend and kind Dublin host, Joseph Williams, 
she writes, Fifth mo. 24th, 1800 : 

" As you are like to be favored with another visit from our 
beloved brother, Samuel Smith, who. with his worthy and valu- 
able companion, my dear friend, Richard Jordan, I have no 
doubt will be cordially received and acknowledged, as they are, 
as true gospel ministers, by thee and all others who love the 
Lord Jesus in sincerity, and your sweet spirited friend, Gervase 
Johnson, whose innocent, watchful example will be long remem- 
bered by many in the land ; I am desirous to accompany them 
with a few lines, to inform thee that I am still, to my own ad- 
miration, in the land of the living, and feel the continuance of 
that same precious influence, which so nearly united our spirits 
when I was a sojourner with thee, thy beloved wife and dear 
children. To all of them I desire to be affectionately remem- 
bered, and wish, most sincerely, their preservation in every wise 
and valuable pursuit. 

" Samuel Smith, thou knowest — and he being qualified, can 
can give thee all needful information about thy friends in these 
parts ; also particulars concerning the latter end of our dear 
friend, Samuel Emlen, whose company is not missed more by 
any than by myself; but as his blessed Master saw meet to 
call his faithful servant home, submission to His holy will be- 
comes his family everywhere ; therefore, I desire to say. Amen! 
Thou wilt also be able to understand how our dear S. Harrison 
has been tried since her return ; she, however, is in the enjoy- 
ment of the reward promised to faithfulness, which appears to 
be also the strengthening experience of dear S. Talbot. She, 
Rebecca Wright, and Ann Jessop, were at our late Yearly Meet- 
ing, which was a solemn season. The remembrance of the 
four awful visitations which this city has experienced, and the 

approach of another summer, must, to every serious mind, have 

24* 



282 MEMORIALS OF 

a humbling effect. O, that the people had truly learned right- 
eousness by the judgments permitted to us! then might we 
hope to be spared another year.* But there is reason to fear, that 
long neglected and repeated mercy, being so little laid to heart, 
further chastisement awaits us, the inhabitants of this highly 
favored city. Your trials have been of a different kind, and 
some of them, I have no doubt, have been magnified to us. I 
hope, however, all is not as has been represented ; but be that 
as it may, " the foundation of God standeth sure, having this 
seal, the Lord knoweth them that are his." My sympathy, 
however, is great with thee and dear M. Ridgway; my love is 
to her and her companion, J. W. In thy freedom — though I 
suspect it will be a painful task — ^I should like to know the true 
state of things, that more than enough might not be in circula- 
tion. * * * * 

Our dear N. Wain is poorly ; William Savery,a strong man, 
and D. Bacon remains an upright pillar — sound and steady ; 
perhaps thou hast heard of the decease of dear Patience Bray- 
ton ; but Mehetabel Jenkins is alive and in the truth." 



• It may be interesting to some of our readers to be informed that the 
yellow fever, to which R. Jones so frequently and feelingly alludes, 
and which made such awful ravages in this city in the years 1793, '97, 
'98, and '99, visited it again, to a considerable extent, in 1803. From 
that time to the present, though isolated cases have occurred, it has not 
assumed an epdemic character. It can be no disavowal of our depend- 
ence on Divine protection, to remark, that as far as natural causes have 
contributed to this exemption from epidemic disease, the introduction 
of good water, in abundance, from the river Schuylkill, must be con- 
sidered as one of the most efficient. Besides contributing to the clean- 
liness of the city, it has greatly diminished the consumption of fer- 
mented liquors ; and experience has sufficiently proved that alcoholic 
drinks, of every description, render the human body more susceptible 
of disease, and more insensible to the action of medicine, than it is 
when such liquids are totally avoided. Total abstinence has been 
found one of the best preventatives of cholera. So true it is, that 
whatever contributes to good morals, is, in general, promotive also of 
health. The blessing of Providence always rests on the course thai 
is right. — Ed. Friekds' Review. 



REBECCA JONES. 283 



R. J. TO Martha Routh. 

Philadelphia, bth mo. 2eth, 1800. 

My beloved Martha Routh, — Thy last, of Seventh month 
13th, 1799, is now before me. I had, before its receipt, con- 
cluded that, as so many of mine to different friends in your land 
had been lost, it would be best for me to lay my pen, where my 
honor had for some time been, viz., in the dust. But now, our 
mutual dear friend, Samuel Smith, with Richard Jordan, being 
about to embark on a gospel errand to Ireland, and some parts of 
your nation, feeling a fresh salutation flow towards thee, I am 
disposed to make the present attempt. * * * 

1 need not say much about S. Emlen's close, which was in 
great sweetness and peace, as dear S. Smith can give thee intel- 
ligence of this or other circumstances. Suffice it therefore to 
know, that our young ministers are, many of them, growing in 
strength and beauty, particularly Sarah Cresson, H. Fisher, H. 
L. Fisher, and Rebecca Archer. Our Jacob Lindley is to declare 
his intentions of marriage next Fourth day with our Ruth Anna 
Rutter. A like report we have of dear Rebecca Young. May 
they all be favored with the conducting hand of best wisdom. 

I suppose your annual solemnity is near a close. My mind 
has been so much with you, that I do hope it has been a festive 
time, even if the cup of suffering has also been handed. Ours 
was truly so. We had the company and large services of 
divers strangers — especially Nathan Hunt, Ann Jessop, Daniel 
Haviland, and Daniel Dean, besides R. Jordan, &c. Thy dear 
R. Wright was here, and seemed of her better sort. 

We are in full expectation that our absent brother, Thonrras 
Scattergood, will be at liberty, after your yearly Meeting, to re- 
turn, and, if I am in the body, I shall rejoice at seeing him. 

I somehow was not capable of feeling sorrow, in hearing of 
the happy translation of M. Haworth ; so many are the dangers 
that beset us poor creatures on every hand, that I have learned 
to adopt in sincerity, on every such removal from this militant 



284 MEMORIALS OF 

state, this exclamation — " Blessed are the dead," &c. We have 
affecting accounts from your sister kingdom. We have enough 
everywhere to convince us of the necessity of" taking heed lest 
we fall," so that I sometimes tremble on my own account. My 
old friend, H. Cathrall, is in an innocent childlike state of mind, 
but so lame in her feet, from a paralytic affection, that it is with 
difficulty she gets from one room to another. * * * * 
Have me, dear Martha, in remembrance for good, for I have 
many infirmities, both of flesh and spirit, to struggle with, and I 
need the prayers of my friends more than ever. Do sometimes 
let me hear from thee, and all about my dear friends in Eng- 
land — a spot pleasant to my thoughts ; yet the good land, which 
is not very far off, being sometimes so animatingly in view, my 
soul is enabled to look beyond the things ichich are seen^ and 
to crave that the Lord, in his infinite mercy, may, at the last, 
conduct my poor soul thereinto, even in the lowest station. 
Farewell, my endeared sister, for so thou art to thy poor 




R. J. TO Martha Routh. 

Philadelphia, 11th mo. 6th, 1800. 

My dear Friend, — Thy tender greeting of Seventh month 
last, came duly to hand ; the contents whereof awakened all that 
is within me capable of feeling with thee in the depth of many 
sorrows, and with Friends in your land who are concerned to 
support those testimonies of divine origin which were given to 
our forefathers, and are renewed to us in the present day. 
Thine and other similar accounts respecting the sorrowful affair 
which so exercised your Yearly Meeting, explains what was 
before in circulation here. * * 

What can be done, short of the Lord's doings, to bring the 
party to see and escape the subtle work of the enemy, I know 



REBECCA JONES. ^§5 

not. I sincerely pray that she may be restored to the path of 
sound judgment, and so remove the occasion of offence ; or I 
fear the weak of the flock will be staggered, and scattered into 
the wilderness thereby. But the living Foundation will stand 
sure ! Happy amd safe are they whose building is thereon ! 
Against these, we are told, " the gates of hell shall not prevail." 
How different are the sensations of my mind on reading thy 
account, and thy settled opinion respecting some of the younger 
class among you, whose solid deportment drew forth sympathy 
and encouragement from their elder sisters. And it appears 
from what thou sayest about meeting with our dear S. Smith 
and R. Jordan, M. Stacey and Sarah Lynes, at your Quarterly 
Meeting, that it was similar to what the apostle experienced at 
Appii Forum, when he " thanked God, and took courage." I 
remember to have seen S. Lynes at Clerkenwell school, and that 
my landlord, Joseph Gurney Bevan, told me he " did believe she 
would make something clever if she lived." I don't wonder at 
thy solicitude for her preservation. My spirit unites with thine 
therein, that she may be kept by the power of God, by the 
armour of Righteousness on the right hand and on the left, from 
every snare, and in every hour of trial and temptation that may 
assail her. I was pleased to find that she had so steady and 
valuable a friend as M. Stacey with her. 

Our choice plants, Hannah, wife of S. R. Fisher, Hannah L. 
daughter of Thomas Fisher, Sally Cresson, &c., thrive and 
bring forth pleasant fruit, as do many more, in city and country. 
So that if thou shouldst be again divinely commissioned, and 
sent to visit this land, thou wilt have some joy, amidst many 
sorrows that will inevitably be thy portion. 

Our dear S. Harrison is able to get to meetings, and amongst 
her friends ; and our dear T. Scattergood feels near as ever to 
the living amongst us. He gave us, last Second-day, being our 
Quarterly Meeting, a lively but affecting account of his exercises ; 
after which our Meeting's Memorial concerning dear S. Emlen, 
was read, and being lively and very descriptive, had a remarkable 
reach on the meeting, so that we broke up in tears, S. E,'s 



286 MEMORIALS OF 

daughter has been married to Dr. Physick, of an unexceptiona 
ble character, as a man and as a physician, yet not a member 
of our Society. What shall we say to such things as these, but 
that all must purchase Truth for themselves, if they really come 
into the possession of it. * * * 



R. Jones to Joseph Williams. 

Philadelphia, 11th mo. 6th, 1800. 

Dear friend, — Joseph Williams, — Thy truly welcome epistle 
of Eighth month last, I have now before me, and, fully resolved 
to keep fast hold of my end of the chain, as our Indians say, sit 
down in order/ to reply to thy sundry intelligence; some part of 
which hath clothed my mind with great sadness. The particu- 
lars as related by thee, have more fully explained the matter, 
which had reached us before thine came to hand. It is rapidly 
spreading as from Dan to Beersheba. I am not equal to any 
advice in this afflicting case ; but hope best wisdom may direct 
whatever is done ; and that the party may have an ear to hear 
*' what the spirit saith unto the churches." And seeing what 
poor, fallible creatures we are, oh that we may watch and pray 
continually to be preserved on the one true and living founda- 
tion, "against which the gates of hell shall not prevail." 

I am, however, truly sorry it is become so public, fearing, lest 
some of the weak of the flock may be staggered, if not wholly 
driven away thereby. 

Your situation, before this happened, was to be lamented; an(> 
thou my dear friend, with all the faithful, who are endeavoring 
to " hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering," have 
had a bitter cup to drink. But may it be remembered, that 
greater is He that is in and with his people, than he that is in 
and of the world ! By this time, I hope, some of you will have 
to say, in the arrival and help of dear S. Smith and R. Jordan, 
" God that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us 



REBECCA JONES. 287 

by the coming of , Titus." My love to them, if they are yet in 
your land, and to dear G. Johnson ; say I look towards him in 
the same love by which we were united at Newport, Nantucket, 
&c. He may have heard that his young companion, Ebenezer 
Cresson, died suddenly not long since, in consequence of a hurt 
on his foot, which brought on a lock-jaw, and took him away 
in his innocence. 

Dear S. Emlen's company and services are greatly missed, 
but he had finished his work, and is, I doubt not, translated to a 
better inheritance. A sweet memorial of him was read at our 
late Quarterly Meeting, and a still sweeter one lives in many 
of our hearts. At the same meeting, dear T. Scattergood gave 
us an account of his trials, sufferings, and baptisms, which was 
very affecting to the meeting in general. We rejoice in his re- 
lease from the field of service, and that he is evidently alive in 
Truth. Phebe Speakman also looks fine and easy in spirit. 
Oh, what a mercy, that the poor servants are so preserved 
through what is allotted them, and favored to return with sheaves 
of peace j * * * 

We of this city have abundant cause to be humbly thankful 
to the Father of mercies, in that he hath been pleased to spare 
us this year a visitation from that dire disease, the yellow fever, 
yet it has prevailed at Baltimore, Norfolk, and Providence. 

We have divers promising young ministers in this city. My 
prayer for them is, that the Lord keep them humble, little, and 
low. 

I wish my love handed to thy dear wife, &c. Ah, what 
changes, divisions, and multiplications in families, have taken 
place in a few years ! and what remaineth to pass through is 
wisely hidden from us. I think this scrawl will convince thee, 
that I am old, and almost worn out, for all thou pleasantly saf- 
est about old maidens. 

As to my present circumstances take the following. I live in 
a neat dwelling in Brook's Court, near North meeting ; keep a 
little shop ; have a precious child in my B. C. I can walk about 
better than for several years past ; have a tolerable share of 



288 MEMORIALS OF 

health ; am favored with the company of my dear friends, and 
what is still more to be prized, feel my heart at times lifted up 
in gratitude and thankfulness to the Author of all good, for his 
innumerable favors and mercies vouchsafed in an abundant man- 
ner, to me, a poor unworthy creature. 

Let us pray for one another, that we may be kept steadfast 
and immovable unto the end, and finally obtain an admission 
into that city, " none of whose inhabitants can say, I am sick !" 

I am, dear Joseph, with love unfeigned, thy sister in the un- 
changeable Truth, 




The scepticism which prevailed in Ireland occasioned her 
much concern ; the more so, as it ensnared some, of whom she 
had hoped better things. " I have learned," she notes, Tenth 
month 3d, " that Truth has so far prevailed over Error, and 
light over darkness, that opposition to its known principles is on 
the decline. This must inevitably be the case, because, ' the 
La3ib and his folloivers will have tlie victory y 

Under the same date, she says, 

"I have a letter from Richard Jordan, written after the last 
Yearly Meeting in London. He appeared to be low and lonely, 
having in prospect a visit to the continent, and, as yet, no com- 
panion. I hope he is by this time favored with a yoke-fellow, 
and have no doubt but his blessed Master will supply all his 
needs. He is a near and dear brother in the Gospel." 

On the 11th of Ninth month, 1801, died her kind and faith- 
ful friend James Hartley. Early one evening, during his illness, 
Rebecca Jones sent to him by a neighbor a sympathetic mes- 
sage. Whilst sitting at her supper, at 9 o'clock that night, she 
laid down her knife and fork and sat whh great solemnity, 
which feeling was shared by her companion, our informant. 
After a little while, she said, " The conflict is over, James is 
gone." About an hour afterwards the same neighbor called, 
with information that he had deceased precisely at the time of, 
R. J.'s impression. 



REBECCA JONES. . 289 

Whatever may be thought of intimations thus afforded to in- 
dividuals at the moment when a near friend is disrobed of mor- 
tality, the fact of such, and .of kindred phenomena, is placed, by 
reiterated occurrence, entirely beyond dispute, at least to those 
who believe the testimony. There are those among our readers 
who can refer to cases within their own personal knowledge. 
Several instances of this spiritual communion will be found in 
these memoirs, and more might have been inserted. We think 
it expedient to place on record well authenticated cases of the 
kind, not to encourage superstition, but as an aid to the believer, 
in furnishing evidence that the Divine Spirit does at times com- 
municate to the human mind a knowledge of things which could 
not be perceived by the natural faculties. We see no reason 
for seeking to refer these spiritual phenomena to any other 
source than " the testimony of Jesus, which is the Spirit of 
Prophecy." 

To C. Hustler she writes. Third month 12th ; "It was like 
marrow to my bones to hear, by a late letter from Henry Tuke, 
that thou art ' strong in the best life.'' It must be a great com- 
fojrt that thy dear children are settled so near to thee, and that 
precious Sarah is continued a prop to thy declining years. Sa- 
lute each of them and theirs for me, and convey to them my 
fervent desire that they may become valiant for the cause of 
Truth, through an unreserved obedience to all its dictates, in 
smaller as well as in greater matters ; seeing that the work of 
Righteousness is peace, and the effects thereof quietness and as- 
surance for ever ! Your approaching Yearly Meeting will be 
interesting — one subject in particular painfully so. May best 
counsel be waited for and obtained ! Dear Richard Jordan, 
being left to serve alone in Ireland, calls forth my tender sym- 
pathy. My love to him and to Samuel Smith, Charity Cook, 
M. Swett, David Sands, Elizabeth Coggeshall, and G. and S. 
Dillwyn. Tell S. Smith his wife is accompanying John Parrish 
in a family visit to our North Meeting. 

" It is probable that some of our friends may clear out at 

your approaching solemnity, whose return will be pleasant to 

25 



290 MEMORIALS OF 

their friends here. May their peace be sealed sure. Dear 
Thomas Scattergood is a precious addition to our meeting. Our 
dear Sarah Harrison often mentions thee with heartfelt affection, 
and in a late conversation we were both so revived, that we 
concluded that if by going 100 miles we could gain an interview 
with thee, we should not hesitate an hour about the undertaking. 
We are as nearly united in gospel fellowship as ever." 

Referring in this letter to the approaching Yearly Meeting of 
Philadelphia, she says : " I suppose thou wilt look sometimes 
towards us, as I shall towards you, if continued in mutability. 
And this being one of the blessed privileges enjoyed by the child- 
ren of the heavenly kingdom, let us prize it, be comforted in it, 
and give to our great and holy Head, who presides over his 
own church every where, the glory which is now and for ever 
his due. 

*' My Bernice," she adds, " continues an affectionate precious 
companion in my solitary moments, as well as a most tender 
nurse under indisposition. I number her among my comforts 
in the journey through and near the end of this vale of sorrow. 

"May the Shepherd of Israel protect, defend, and save you 
by his own immediate power, in every time of trial and distress, 
is the present breathing desire of thy sincerely affectionate 
friend, old fellow traveller, and sister in the uivchangeaele 
Truth." 

Fifth month 4th, she received from John Lury, of Bristol, 
a present of" a very rich cheese," in which was a tin box, con- 
taining twenty guineas in gold, being the amount of a legacy 
left to R. J. by a deceased friend. 

Philadelpliia, 10th month 26th, 1801. 
Dearly beloved friend, S. Stephenson, — I have oflen thought 
of writing to thee since thy arrival in our land with thy dear 
companion M. Jeffries, but being in expectation of seeing thee 
before this time in our city, I have put the motion by until 
now — and having, in a dream last night, been with thee, and 
embraced Ihee and M. J. in the arms of undissembled Christian 



REBECCA JONES. 291 

and Gospel fellowship, I have at length taken up my pen in 
near and dear unity, to offer tlie written salutation thereof to 
your acceptance. For, though by increased years s'lnce I was 
a sojourner in your land, I witness an increase of bodily infir- 
mities, which, for the last two years, have kept me much m our 
city ; I do, nevertheless, rejoice in the continued qualification 
to bid good speed to all the dignified servants in our heavenly 
Father's family, and crave that the arms of their hands may 
indeed be made strong through the Power of the God of Jacob. 
That so, in this day of deep revolt, and time of Satan's triumph 
over such who have been numbered among the stars — Israel 
may not be given over to reproach, nor Jeriisalem become an 
hissing and a desolation. * 

I hear that ye are given up to the service of visiting families — 
a work in which thou, dear Sarah, hast had long and large ex- 
perience. May it be blessed to the visited in that city, where 
dear R. Wright and myself were a few years ago engaged in 
like manner, from house to house. Whilst sitting by my own 
fireside, I can accompany you mentally, and share a part of 
your exercises therein, according to my small measure, trusting 
that mouth and wisdom, with every requisite supply will be 
granted, and the Divine name exalted, which is now and forever 
worthy. Thou art so often enquired after by friends here, that 
many seem already acquainted with thee, and believe that not- 
withstanding things are as they are among us, thou wilt find 
Fathers and Mothers, Brethren and Sisters, in the heavenly Re- 
lation ; unto v/hich I know thou wisely givest preference. * * 
I have no late letters from Europe, but, as I cannot hold out as 
usual, in the epistolary way, I must endeavor to be content 
under the ancient assertion, " He that soweth sparingly, shall 
reap sparingly." 

In Gospel affection, I remain thy poor, but sincerely well 
wishing sister, 




292 MEMORIALS OF 

To C. Hustler and daughter, she writes Eleventh mo. 27th, — 
" My faithful, dear friend Catharine Howell's choice daughter, 
Elizabeth, about the age of S. Hustler, has several times, lately, 
lifted up her voice in public meetings, and is a precious plant. 
May all who have submitted to become fools for Christ's sake in 
this way, follow his leadings faithfully, and serve him with their 
whole hearts, is the fervent petition of my heart.'* 

' So shall they grow to glad parental care, 
And shine as warriors in defence of Truth.' 

" 0[ Hannah Barnard's* return little has been said, so that I 

In several of the preceding letters, allusion is made to the trials ex- 
perienced by Fri^ds, particularly in Ireland, about this time, but the 
name of H. Barnard has not been heretofore mentioned in connexion 
with them, yet there can be no reasonable doubt that she was a promi- 
nent agent in the production of the difficulties and exercises to which 
R. Jones frequently alludes. 

Hannah Barnard, who resided in the State of New Yorkjiwas an ac- 
knowledged minister in our Society, possessed of talents considerably 
above the ordinary level, with a force of imagination and power of lan- 
guage which were quite attractive to her youthful and inexperienced 
hearers. Yet some of the more discerning and considerate class re- 
garded her, as one, to use a hackneyed but expressive phrase, wlio was 
carrying more sail than ballast. When she opened to her friends at 
home, her prospect of paying a religious visit to the meetings in Eng- 
land and Ireland, it is understood that considerable hesitation appeared ; 
but she was eventually liberated by the proper meetings, and proceeded 
to Europe in pursuit of her prospect. Whether she had, previously to 
her embarkation, embraced opinions incompatible with those acknow- 
ledged and maintained by the Society, or whether she gradually fell 
into them while on her journey; she at length gave such evidence of 
the unsoundness of her principles, that Friends in Ireland judged it 
needful that she should discontinue her ministerial labors, and return 
home. 

From this judgment she appealed to the Yearly Meeting of London, 
where the subject underwent a careful examination. Her popular and 
plausible eloquence had attached a party to her, but after a patient in- 
vestigation, the Yearly Meeting bore its testimony against the doctrines 
which she had espoused. 

She at length returned to her native land, and a complaint being laid 
before the Monthly Meeting to which she belonged, she was disowned. 
From this judgment she appealed to the Quarterly and Yearly Meet- 
ings, by which the testimony was confirmed. — EnixoR Fktexds' Re- 
view. 

R. J. received from Richard Jordan a curious and interesting letter 
respecting H. Barnard, which the compiler has not been able to find 
among her papers. Writing in allegorical style, so as to be intelligible 



REBECCA JONES. 393 

hope she continues quietly at home. Richard and Martha Routh 
are on their way to New Bedford. My B. C. is a solid, precious 
companion, and as near to me as though she were mine own 
daughter. Dear Samuel Smith, Wilham Savery, and Thomas 
Scattergood, are my frequent visitors, and brethren beloved. 

"Could we but have a few hours personal interview, how 
pleasant would it be ! But as this cannot be, let it suffice that 
we often mentally visit each other, and endeavor to live and 
walk in that holy fellowship, which stands ' with the Father and 
with his Son, Christ Jesus,' in wh^m all the families of the earth 
are blessed ; and let us trust that, of his adorable mercy, we 
shall, when this short fight of affliction is over, be united in his 
heavenly kingdom, never more to part. 

" My old companion, Hannah Cathrall, who lives about five 
miles ofl^, at Frankford, is on a visit to her friends in this city, 
and though very lame, seems renewed in best life. She spoke 
a few words in our meeting last Third day, and will, I verily 
believe, land in peace at last. What a mercy !" 



CHAPTER XIV. 

1802—1804. 

Arrival of S. Stevenson and M. Jeffries, and death of the former — Let- 
ters — Death of Hannah Price — Wm. Jackson — Retires to Edgely — 
Letters to James Allinson — Arrival of George Dillwyn — Returns to 
Brooks' Court — Whale — R. J. and S. Smith in sympathy with Friends 
in England. 

In her pocket almanac for 1802, she notes, — on New Year's 
day, as we suppose — "Forasmuch as the Lord in his infinite 

only to those who knew something of the case, he describes the arrival 
of a ship from America laden with contraband wares. A few parcels 
he says were cautiously opened in England, but, there being no de- 
mand for them, she set sail for Ireland, &c. &c. The allegory was inge- 
niously pursued, W. J. A. 

25* 



294 MEMORIALS OF 

mercy hath granted me a little longer space, oh that a wise im- 
provement of the present time may ensure to me, when ' time 
shall be no longer,' an interest m his favor and mercy forever 
and ever." 

She notes the arrival Second month 9th, in Philadelphia, of 
Sarah Stephenson and M. Jeffries, and mentions S. S. having, 
in several meetings, " good service." " Third month 8th, iS. S. 
mentioned her concern to visit families in Pine street, which 
they began the 9th." This' Friend was taken sick the next day, 
yet on the 11th she went to Germantown, and on the 31st re- 
turned to S. R. Fisher's, and attended Pme street meeting. 
" She was taken ill, says R. J., in the middle of the week, and 
quietly breathed her last on Second-day, Fourth month 26th, 
about seven o'clock P. M. She was interred on Fifth-day, after 
a solemn and large meeting at High street." 

As intimated above, the mortal remains of this virtuous, 
amiable, and devoted woman and minister of Christ, were taken 
into the meeting house on High street, where, as we are in- 
formed by a Friend who was present, a number of lively testi- 
monies were borne to her devotedness and Christian graces. 
Early in the meeting her bereaved companion, Mary Jeffries, 
was fervent in supplication. She commenced with the text, 
"As the heavens are high above the earth, so are thy ways high 
above our ways ;" — and she implored divine aid, that she might 
take with resignation the cup, though comparable to the worm- 
wood and the gall, saying, " thou hast given me to see that it is 
a sacrifice of thy own preparing, and that her peace has thereby 
been sealed v/ith thee." She evinced, by her composure, her 
striving to acquiesce in the unerring will — in the evidence of which 
the minds of those present were humbled. Several Friends, says 
our informant, expressed their belief that she had come to this 
land in the ordering of best Wisdom ; and Nicholas Wain said, 
— "she was the daughter of consolation ; had a lively ingather- 
ing gift, being a real comforter to those who were thirsting after 
the living spring," &c. And Hannah, wife of S. R. Fisher, 
spoke in a beautiful and moving strain, saying, " It is the end 



REBECCA JONES. 295 

that crowns all, and as I was favored to see the close of this 
our beloved friend. I believe it required of me to say, that as she 
lived the life of the righteous, so she continued through her 
sickness, and in her death, evincing that the sting of death was 
taken away, whereby she was made to triumph over death, hell, 
and the grave. Oh, my beloveds, what encouragement is this 
to follow her example, that by living the life of the righteous, 
we may be favored to make an end like unto theirs." 

The interment took place in the Fourth street grave yard. 

To her friend Mary Bevan she writes 5th mo. 1st — " I by no 
means wish to take thee in any " snare" other than such as 
true friendship and good old fashioned love dictates, I say old 
fashioned, because thou knowest there is a deal of fancy goods, 
and new fashioned stuffs now a days, brought into use, and 
some of them of so flimsy a texture, that they are hardly 
worth the cost of trimmings and making up — that when I do 
meet with what I esteem substantial I am willing to clothe 
others and be clothed therewith myself— even with that 
love which doth not wax old like a garment — so hold 
on, dear friend, m thy epistolary visits to the^oor oldiuoman, now 
m her 63rd year, because she is cheered and comforted thereby, 

I had heard of the removal of thy nephew R. P. B. and did 
think it would be as deeply felt by thee and his worthy 
grandmother as any other of his connexions, but he has happily 
escaped those temptations and trials that in various shapes assail 
us who remain in the field, and makes it necessary to put on, 
and to keep on, the whole armor of light, in order that thro' 
watchfulness and prayer we may be able to stand ! This I do 
fully believe was the care and concern of thy country woman, 
the late dear Sarah Stephenson of whose peaceful close in the 
service of her blessed master, thou wilt hear from others, 
but as I was with her at the time and a witness to her resigna- 
tion and patience during the conflict, I am free to inform thee 
that after her visit at New York to the families of members, 
and such as stand disowned, she came to this city in a very 
infirm state of health, and having begun a visit to families 



296 ^ MEMORIALS OF 

of Pine-street meeting, she evidently grew weaker. In the 
week of our late yearly meetings she became so much worse, 
that hope of recovery was quite lost both by herself and her 
friends. She however continued till the 26th ultimo, when 
she departed without sigh or groan, divers friends being pre- 
sent. She was mterred the 29th, after a large and favored 
meeting held on* the occasion^ in which her companion, Mary 
Jeffries was bowed in supplication, and N. Wain, S. Smith, 
M, Swett, &c., appeared in testimony, and W. S. a very closed 
in prayer. From all I can gather, I find this dear friend was 
settled in the belief that she should lay down her life in 
America ; and she will be long remembered, even as N. Wain 
testified of her in the meeting. " She was indeed a daughter ot 
consolation, having a sweet, precious, gathering gift." She 
is now happily released from pain and suffering. Her dear 
companion, who faithfully attended on her, is truly an object 
of tender sympathy, being now left solitary in a strange land. 
But I trust she is under gracious care. She has endeared herself, 
by her humility, to friends here. She has a lively gift in the 
ministry, and will, I believe, not go unrewarded by her good 
Master, to whose dedicated servant she was sincerely attach- 
ed in life, and whom she forsook not in her last moments !" 

I am much of thy sentiment respecting Hannah Barnard's 
case. I do hope the right thing will be done and that your 
women's Yearly Meeting will be owned by the presence of the 
great Head of the Church, which is composed of females as 
well as males, who alike have need to move under a sense of 
their own weakness. But why let the tormentor Fear in thee 
predominate ? Perfect love will cast it out. He that feareth, 
saith the Apostle, is not made perfect in love. And tho' ; as, 
W. Savery says, 'tis better to be dumb than to offer the sacri- 
fice of fools, — yet even he often declares that obedience is better 
than either a dumb or foolish sacrifice. In short, my dear 
Mary, 'tis a great lesson, to become a fool ; and such wfe must 
be before we are made truly wise. Take heed therefore to the 
gift thou hast received. J) o i\\ou let it turn ^ and be willing to 



REBECCA JONES. 297 

turn with it — then whatsoever it doeth and vvhithersover it turn- 
elh, it shall prosper. See how freely I write to thee. It is the 
fruit of that love, which I felt in first entering thy house in 
Plow Court — and in it I salute thee and thy beloved Joseph, 
and bid you endearedly farewell, being thy affectionate fellow 
disciple. Wm. Jackson, — a man of simplicity, wisdom and sin- 
cerity, has obtained credentials for a visit to your land." 

Fifth month 8th she notes, — " Died, Hannah, wife of Phihp 
Price,* of whom it may be said she was among the meek and 
merciful, and had marked upon her the blessing pronounced 
upon the peace makers. I went with Sarah Harrison and S. 
Rhoads, to her burial, at Darby, the 10th, where a solemn 
meeting was held. Wm, Savery had the chief service " 



R. Jones to Joseph Williams. 
\ 

Philadelphia Sixth month 9th, 1802. 

My dear and worthy friend^ Joseph Williams, — However, 
" short and scanty" in thine own view, thy letter of Fourth month, 
I do assure thee, the receipt of it has given me much pleasure ; 
and through all its contents were not of the most consoling kind, 
thy account of your being more calm at present, affords encour- 
agement to hope that the late storm, in which thou, my brother, 
hast been so closely tried, has nearly spent itself. Be that as 
it may, I have no sort of doubt, that thou, with others who have 
nobly contended for the Faith, as it is in Jesus, will by the same 
faith obtain victory, according to that ancient truth, " This is 
your victory, even your Faith !" 

Thou wilt have heard, before this comes to hand, of the 
peaceful transition of our late beloved Sarah Stephenson, from 
this mortal state, to, we trust, a glorious immortality. Her 

* Parents of Philip Price, once superintendent at Westtown. H. 
P. was a valued Elder and Mother in Israel. 



298 MEMORIALS. OF , 

chosen companion, M. Jeffries, seeing her way to return to her 
own land, and leaving a sweet savor here, will be likely soon to 
embark, in company with our dear friend Wm. Jackson.* 
When he arrives amongst you, receive him as a brother beloved, 
"if thou count me a partner." 

* William Jacksbn, whose embarkation for Europe is here mention- 
ed, was one of the primitive stock of Friends to whom the character 
given by our Lord to Nathaniel, " behold an Israelite indeed, in whom 
is no guile," might be justly applied. His ministry was not with the 
enticing words of man's wisdom, but remarkable for its weight and so- 
le mnity. Though well acquainted with the doctrines and principles 
of the Society, as illustrated by the standard authors among us, his 
knowledge of divine things was evidently drawn from a deeper spring 
than books or sermons could supply. To those who had the privilege 
of an acquaintance with him, and who could appreciate his worth, he 
Avas a remarkably interesting and instructive companion; his memory 
being stored with a large amount of information respecting those wor- 
thy members who constituted the bone and sinew of the Society daring 
a period a little antecedent to his own. 

During the turmoils of the revolutionary war, he paid an extensive 
visit to Friends in some of the Middle and Eastern States, in which he 
sometimes appeared to have his life in his hand. But walking by the 
faith that led him out, he was guided safely through all his difficulties 
and dangers ; and after nearly two years thus employed, returned again 
to his native place, in Chester county, Pennsylvania. 

After the restoration of peace he performed a number of visits to the 
meetings of Friends in several parts of this continent ; and from the 
testimonials which were received respecting these labors, it appears he 
was enabled to adorn, b)^ his own life and conversation, the doctrines 
which he was concerned to preach to others. 

The voyage to which R. Jones refers, terminated by his arrival at 
Liverpool, in the Eighth month, 1802; and he spent about three years 
assiduously laboring in the work of the Gospel. During this lime he 
appears to have attended nearly all the meetings of Friends in Eng- 
land, Ireland and Scotland, as well as some parts of Wales, and a num- 
ber of them several times. In the brief memorials of these visit, which 
he left behind him, and which the writer of this article had the oppor- 
tunity of inspecting, we find him patiently travelling from day to day, 
and from meeting to meeting, where the members were reduced to a 
ver)'" small and feeble remnant, seeking out and laboring to strengthen 
the seeking seed wherever located. 

In one of his notices respecting the attendance of meetings for disci- 
pline, many of which fell in the course of his journey, he makes the 
following impressive observations: " Oh, these meetings for discipline, 
were they held and maintained in the wisdom and power of God, the 
active members knowing their own wills subjected Jo His will, and mov- 
ing only as he moves them, either to speak or to be silent, what schools 
of instruction would they be, both to the youth and those more ad- 



REBECCA JONES. 299 

I am now confined to my chamber, with rheumatism In one 
knee, which is much swelled, and painful. Since commg up 
stairs, I have been honored with the company of dear S. Smith, 
who is my frequent visitor, S. Harrison, who looks finely, Wm. 
Savery, a strong man in every way, and N. Wain, who is in 
good health, and a bright example to the flock. James Pem- 
berton also sat an hour with me last Seventh-day. He is near 
eighty, a firm pillar in the Lord's house, and his faculties, ex- 
cept liis hearing, are, I think, as bright as ever. T. Scatter- 
good and D. Bacon are also in an active, lively state, and at 
our late Yearly Meeting in Fourth month, we had the company 
of R. Wright, S. Talbot and Phebe Speakman, with dear Mehe- 
tabel Jenkins, on a visit to these parts. These were all in the 
love and life of the gospel, so that there is yet cause to " thank 
God and take courage," in believing that our heavenly Father 
continues his blessed promise to His humble followers — " Lo, I 

am with you always, even to the end of the world." 

***** 

How fares our old friend Jane Watson now '? I have latley 
felt so much about her that I have written to her. Th'ine to S. 
Stephenson, says, " M. Ridgway is going into the North of Eng- 

vanced. I am now in the fifty-ninth year of my age, and find myself 
but a learner, and in need of daily instruction." 

He returned to his native land in the Autumn of 1805. The ancient 
testimony of the Society, to live within the bounds of our circum- 
stances, and to avoid engaging in hazardous enterprises, to the disturb- 
ance of our own tranquillity, and the endangering of the property of 
others, lay very near to his heart ; often advising his friends, and par- 
ticularly those who were just setting out in life, to make their wants 
few, and thus avoid the danger of being driven to doubtful or improper 
expedients to supply them. 

Retaining his faculties in old age without visible decay, he performed 
several short journeys, in the service of Society, after he had passed 
his eightieth year; but about two years before his decease, he found 
the disorder coming on, which eventually terminated his pilgrimage 
here. 

In the beginning of 1834, while in the 88th year of his age, he was 
gathered as ashock of corn fully ripe, to the place of his rest, weight- 
ily adopting, a few days before his removal, the declaration of the 
Apostle, " I have fought a good fight, I have kept the faith, henceforth 
there is laid up for me a crown of rejoicing." — Ed. Friend's Review. 



300 MEMORIALS OP 

land." What a brave old soldier is she ! If thou coriesponds 
with dear R. Jordan, present my love to him ; also, to all my 
acquaintances vi^ho have kept their habitations in the truth, 
which I sincerely believe is the state of thy dear wife and self. 
Accept, therefore, the cordial salutation, and offer it to thy sis- 
ter, and son Nathaniel, from thy old and affectionate friend, 




Philadelphia, 1th 7iio. 8th, 1802. 
Dea?' friend, Mary Jeffries, — As I learn that thou art still 
detained at New York, I seem as if I could not remain longer 
easy without giving thee a few lines to manifest afresh my sis- 
terly sympathy and love before thou embarkest for thy native 
country, where I do hope and trust, whatever may attend, thou 
wilt arrive in safety and with the sheaves of enriching peace in 
thy bosom» I am, my dear, sensible that thou hast had thy 
hidden conflicts amongst us, and I have no doubt but He who 
sees in secret hath been near to sustain and succor under them 
all. What a blessed privilege this! that "all the ways of a 
raan are before the eyes of the Lord," who understandeth every 
secret sigh and silent tear of his humble dependent children. 
To these He never said " seek ye my face in vain.' So that 
when restored to thy beloved relatives and friends, thou wilt have 
to publish the Lord's gracious dealings, with the voice of thanks- 
giving, and tell of his wondrous works — "his wonders which 
thou hast seen in the deep !" — and this I desire thou mayst be 
encouraged to do, whenever the word of command is " Speak 
to my people that they go forward." My love salutes dear W. 
Jackson, a brother in the sufferings and consolations of the 
Gospel ! He dwells deep, and from thence often draws sweet 
counsel. May he be strengthened with holy boldness and mag- 
nanimity to wield the weapons of his warfare against all he 
may meet with, that stands opposed to the cross of our Lord 
Jesus Christ — yea, against " Spiritual wickedness in high 



REBECCA JONES. 301 

places." — May the Shepherd of Israel be near you both in your 
floating enclosure, " hold the winds in his fists," for your sakes, 
and often make you joyful in his House of Prayer, and then 
bring into remembrance your infirm poor sister, thy affection- 
ate friend, 




In the Eighth month, 1802, a fever broke out in her neigh- 
borhood, by which she notes that the inhabitants were so much 
terrified that " nearly one third of them removed into the 
country." On the 10th she accepted the invitation of her 
" faithful, invariable friend," the hostess of Edgely, from whose 
country seat she writes to Sarah Hustler, Ninth month 15th, — 
'' Whether the people were unnecessarily alarmed, or by the 
general removal, under Providence, the progress of the fever 
was checked, I cannot tell, but the contagion has not spread as 
in '93, '97, '98, and '99, so that there is fresh occasion for 
grateful, humble thankfulness to the Father of all our mercies, 
which my soul prays may be the clothing of all our spirits." 
In the same letter she says : "As thou hast wisely, and I trust, 
unreservedly, yielded to the counsel and call of thy heavenly 
Father, Friend and Helper, I have no doubt that, as thou art 
enabled to persevere in the path of obedience to his holy will, 
following the footsteps of thy pious parent, walking by the same 
rule, minding the same thing to which she has from her youth 
evinced that she has given the preference above every other con- 
sideration, thou wilt also be helped to sing of the Lord's judg- 
ments, and of his mercies, and adopt that ancient acknowledg- 
ment of pious David, ' Thou art my God, I will praise thee ; 
my father's God, and I will exalt and serve thee.' * * * 

" Though I am now in my sixty fourth year, and under 
many infirmities, my interest in all that relates to your family 
is not at all lessened, nor has my unfeigned love undergone any 
alteration or diminution, since the day that my heaven Iv Master 

20 



302 MEMORIALS OF 

disposed the heart of thy beloved mother to unite with my ex- 
ercised spirit in his service. The remembrance of some oi" our 
descendings and ascendings together, with and for the Seed of 
Life, is often sweetly and pleasantly my theme, in my solitary 
and silent musings, when, in the covenant of love and life, lean 
feel her near to my spirit, and sweetly hail her ' highly favored ;' 
THE Lord, her sure support, being her staff, her salvation, her 
evenmg song of rejoicing and praise. We hear that G. and S. 
Dillvvyn are about to return to their native land. What a treat 
I shall have thereby ! Also, that D. Sands and R. Jordan have 
bespoke certificates. Samuel Smith, T. Scattergood, W. Savery, 
N. Wain, S. Harrison, and the rest known to thee, are well 
every way. In love inexpressible, I salute you all, and am thy 
cordial friend and sister in the Truth." 



In a letter to James Allinson, 10th mo. 5th, 1802, referring 
to the arrival of G. and S. Dillwyn, she says, " I have great 
joy in the prospect of our looking each other in the face once 
more in mutability, and can now wait with patience, postponing 
a visit for the present, as some rest among their tender relatives 
and numerous friends must be desirable. May the great Pre- 
server of men, now and forever worthy, be praised ! I expect 
we shall discover visible marks of age in each other, and I trust 
that we shall unitedly set up our Ebenezer together, on our own 
dear native shore. I am quietly at anchor in Liberty Hall, not 
having even the pleasing prospect of a quiet return to our poor city 
which by accounts is far from safe — new cases occurring, and 
my little habitation in the neighborhood of infection. I have 
concluded to stay at Edgely till the inhabitants of our court 
shall move back. T. Scattergood paid us a pleasant visit. 
William Savery is well, and much engaged about the sick and 
poor in his neighborhood. May the Father of mercies be 
pleased in his own time to grant us a comfortable meeting in 



REBECCA JONES. . 303 

our North Meeting House again, and the desire of my heart 
whilst writing is, that I and all of us may return with spirits 
clothed upon with humility, gratitude and thankfulness to the 
great and blessed Author of all good. I salute thee, dear James, 
as a fellow disciple, and crave thy preservation and per- 
severance in the cause of Truth and Salvation." Referring 
a few days later, in a letter to the same friend, to the arrival of 
G. and S. Dillwyn, she says, " Oh how pleased I should have 
been to join their party. I hope dear Susan Emlen will be re- 
vived by the presence of her beloved uncle and aunt, and that 
you all, who are capable of feeling the bond of Christian union 
and best fellowship strengthened, will be qualified to acknow- 
ledge that the great Head of the Church, who puts forth his 
own and goes before them, is worthy to be trusted in and 
blessed forever." 

Writing 11th mo. 1st to Martha Routh, then at N.York, 
she says ; " I note with pleasure thy intention of spending some 
lime this winter in and near our city, where, as heretofore, I 
have no doubt thou wilt find an open door, and be received as 
an ambassador for Christ. I do believe, my dear, notwithstand- 
ing thou hadst some bitter cups to drink among us, thy circum- 
spect walking and gospel labors will be long remembered ani- 
matingly, and thy return to this city be truly acceptable to 
many more than thou hast been acquainted with, besides my- 
self and my B. C. Probably thy tent will be pitched in the old 
spot, (Samuel Fisher's) a place in which such poor old crea- 
tures as I, can use great freedom, and from whence the spirit 
of our dear sister S. Stephenson took its flight from sorrow and 
suffering. I expect thou hast heard of the return of dear G. 
and S. Dillwyn, and Joseph and Beulah Sansom, and also that 
dear Wm. Jackson and M. Jeffries, have been favored with a 
safe though tedious passage of 38 days to Liverpool, and that 
dear Richard Jordan has arrived, all which calls for our united 
thankfulness to the great preserver of men. 

Our devoted brethren, Wm. Savery and Thomas Scattergood, 
with dear Sarah Harrison and divers other fellow laborers, have 



304 MEMORIALS OF 

staid in the city tiirough all the sickness. W. S. has been much 
in it, visiting and administering to the poor of all societies, our 
own especially. S. Smith and wife, with myself and many 
others, have been most easy in leaving it, and have all, I be- 
lieve, been of more use than ^oor me^ as I have been kept very 
much confined to the poor little flock at Germantown, where the 
Lord on high has often mercifully granted the needful supplies of 
heavenly bread." 

She returned to her home in Brook's Court 11th mo. 5th, 
and notes her thankfulness in finding the city " once more filled 
with its inhabitants in their usual health ; very few, compared 
with the numbers formerly taken off by this dire disease, hav- 
ing fallen victims under the present visitation.'' 

In a letter written 12th mo. 9th, to Joseph Williams of Dub- 
lin, she thus evinces her continued fervent love to the disciples, 
and her constant desire to know how the Master's work sped in 
distant parts of the vineyard. 

" I wish to be affectionately remembered to thy family, and 
to such of my friends in your city as keep their habitation in 
the blessed Truth ; and that thou wouldst sometimes give me a 
few lines with what information thou mayest judge proper ; for 
poor and low and old as I am, I trust the precious cause and 
testimony are as dear to me as ever, and therefore I cannot be 
indifferent to the many attempts that are being made to lay them 
waste, with you, and also in this land. I salute thee, dear Jo- 
seph, in gospel affection, and trust that thy bow may abide in 
strength, and the arms of thy hands be made strong by the 
hands of the mighty God of Jacob. 

" Our friend R. Jordan spent an afternoon with me lately ; 
he looks well every way. So also are all our dear friends who 
have visited your country. I hope innocent Joseph Cloud gets 
on with you safely. I almost long for David Sands' release. 
If thou seest William Jackson, who is a dear brother of mine ; 
present him with my love. By a letter from dear Mary Jeff- 
ries, I find that she arrived safely at home, and is in the en- 
joyment of true peace." " 'Tis pleasant," she says to the 



REBECCA JONES. 305 

same friend shortly afterward, " to converse, even in this way, 
with fellow travellers, who are fast sailing towards that letter 
country where all sorrow, disappointment and pain will forever 
cease." 

Early in the spring of 1803, having suffered greatly from 
rheumatism and an attack of influenza, she notes, " I have 
never passed such a winter as this has been — yet withal have 
abundant proof that now in advanced age I am gently and ten- 
derly dealt with." On the same day she remarks, that if she 
were fre2 from rheumatism, she might have something worse to 
bear. 

To Joseph Williams she writes 3d mo. 7th, 1803, «'I perceive 
that a portion of sorrow and suffering is permitted, sufficient to 
keep alive thy soul's desire after enjoyments pure and unchange- 
able. May we, dear friend, maintain the warfare, and retain 
holy confidence in the unconquerable Captain of our Salvation, 
whose power is not only able to change our water into wine 
whilst here, but can graciously cause all things to work together 
for our good, both here and for ever. * * * * Our dear 
G. and S. Dillwyn have dropped anchor in the quiet port of 
their dear Burlington since their return. We have exchanged 
some letters, but have not, as yet, met." 

In the summer of 1803, her steadfast friend, the hostess of 
Edgely, — a playmate of her infancy — wrote to R. J., offering 
her a home during the sickly season ; " on reading which," 
says R. J., " my heart exclaimed with the , apostle, ' who shall 
separate us from the love of Christ V &c. May that peace of 
mind which has been attendant in all thy works and labor of 
love towards the Great Master, and for the comfort of some of 
the little ones be increased by thy late sisterly offer to accom- 
modate even poor, unworthy me, once more, in the day of 
trouble. I am under depression on divers accounts ; pray for 
me when thou canst, that I may ' approve myself unto God,' 
in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, m this as 
well as other places, where I desire to be content with my allot- 
ment." This invitation was not accepted, as she decided to 

26* 



306 MEMORIALS OF 

take her lemporary abode in the neighborhood of Darby, 
whence she writes to K. Howell, Ninth month 17th — "To re- 
ceive from under thy hand an acknowledgment — which my own 
heart has often been sensible of on thy account — that ' the in- 
estimable blessing of divine aid and support' was so richly thy 
experience, did, on opening the joint salutation of thyself and 
dear Elizabeth, sweetly contrite my spirit : fully believing that, 
as ' Mercy and Goodness have followed us all the days of our 
lives,' so whilst we prefer a dwelling in the Lord's house, or 
service, they will be continued to us forever and ever." And 
to her daughter, Elizabeth Howell, she writes on the same date 
— "Ye are as epistles written on the tablet of my heart, and, in 
seasons of unmerited mercy and favor, ye are — as dear S. R. 
Grubb said to me in a letter a little before her exit — ' interwoven 
in my solicitude for heavenly help.' Keep me in your remem- 
brance. The restoration of thy health is a fresh proof of the 
fatherly care of Him who is justly styled the Lord that 
HEALETH ; and the ro Ward of thy late dedication will, I trust, 
stimulate to an increased surrender of soul to the further re- 
quirings of Him, w^ho, ' as a father pitieth his children, doth 
pity those who love and fear him.' My heart inclines towards 
the willing in Israel, and though I now am poor and sorrowful, 
my trust is in the Lord Almighty, and my mind is stayed upon 
his eternal arm of power, who, blessed be his name, hath done 
great things for me, and is worthy of the obedient acknowledg- 
ment of my whole life." 

First month 1st, 1604. " I was," she notes, " at our North 
Meeting, being the beginning of another year, and was enabled 
to express my thoughts thereon." 

First month 15th. "First-day. — Had a good meeting this 
morning. The prevalent sense of my mind is, a want of 
greater fitness to fill up my measure of duty to my great Lord 
and Master ; and more sanctification of body, soul and spirit, 
to meet him with acceptance both here and forever." 



REBECCA JONES. 307 

« Search, Lord, and purify my heart, 
And make it clean in every part, 
And when 'tis clean, Lord keep it so. 
For that is more than I can do." 

" Third month 17th. After performance of a church visit in 
the evening, went to J. Pemberton's to see dear Martha Routh, 
who reached the city about noon. T. Scattergood came home 
with me. Some of our young people went to see a whale which 
was exhibited up town, about two-thirds grown, 33 feet in 
length, and 18 feet in circumference." 

This whale was seen floundering on the shores of the Dela- 
ware, by two men who were ploughing near Chester. They 
loosed their oxen from the plow, and drew the whale beyond the 
reach of the tide. The news soon reached Philadelphia. Tho- 
mas Prior purchased it at a price which the men considered 
liberal, and brought it up to Kensington, where it was exhibited ; 
the mouth being kept open by a tackle, and a high backed arm 
chair placed within for visitors, which seat some of our gentle 
readers will remember having occupied. 

Third month 27th, she mentions " the passing of five cou* 
pies " at the Northern Monthly Meeting ; and some leaving the 
meeting in an irregular manner, she suitably noticed the disor- 
der, " and such as staid quietly were encouraged." Martha 
Routh gave in a certificate from New Bedford, and R. J. accom- 
panied her to the men's meeting, " where she had some lively 
and edifying service." " Last Second day four weeks," she 
adds, " both Samuel Smith and myself were so dipped in near 
sympathy with our friends in England, that we were con- 
strained to mention it to our morning meeting of ministers and 
elders ; and we are still anxious about them, under a belief 
that they,. with the nation, are in deep suffering.* But the 

*Ifio not discover any allusions from which we can certainly decide 
to what circumstance she refers ; or whether there were then any unu- 
sual trials to which Friends in England were exposed, except such as 
might be apprehended from the condition of public affairs ; but as she 
speaks of the nation being in suffering, we may reasonably infer that 
her sensitive mind, as well as that of Samuel Smith, was deeply pain- 
ed with the calamities then impending over the British nation. After 



308 MEMORIALS OF 

Lord is able to deliver them out of all their afflictions — may it 
be so, saith my poor soul." 

Third month 28th. Thomas Scattergood came and gave a 
more favorable account of William Savery, who, for some weeks 
past, appears in declining health, and has had a paralytic affec- 
tion ; also symptoms of dropsy. The prospect of losing so val- 
uable a member of our society, is a close trial to his near 
friends." 

"Fourth month 14th. Seventh day. — The Yearly Meeting 
of Ministers and Elders, began at 10 and again at 3 ; both were 
large and solid sittings. 15th. Both our meetings were very 

the English and French had passed a number of years in wastinj:^ the 
strength of each other, they formed a treaty of peace in 1801. But this 
short-lived pacification was broken in 1803, by the pride and ambition 
of their rulers. Napoleon Buonaparte, who held the chief power in 
France, had openly declared to the British minister, Whitworth, that 
in case hostilities were renewed, he was determined to make a descent 
in person on the English coast. Hostilities were renewed some 
months before this letter was written, and numerous armaments were 
stationed in the ports of the continent, which lie opposite to the island. 
This circumstance naturally excited unusual alarm, and unavoidably 
produced much solicitude among Friends, lest under these trying 
emergencies their testimony against war should not be faithfully main- 
tained ; or that considerable suffering might be experienced in support- 
ing it. 

Never since the days of William of Normandy, had the people of 
England been subjected to the miseries of a hostile invasion, under a 
foreign leader. And the consequences of that invasion were not for- 
gotten in the time of George the Third. The injury to be apprehend- 
ed in 1804, from an inundation of foreign invaders, was incomparably 
greater than it could be in 1066. For the property which was liable to 
be plundered or destroyed, in the beginning of the ninteenth century, 
within the limits of a single parish, was probably greater than could be 
found in the Island, Avhen William landed his Norman host on the 
coast of Sussex. ^ 

To a mind like that of Rebecca Jones, the prospect of having the 
fields over which she had passed a few years before with her message 
of peace on earth and good will to man, overspread with the desolat- 
ing legions of France, and exposed to all the horrors of an invasion, 
such as has turned some of the fairest portions of continental Europe 
into a desert, must have been painful in the extreme. Her pious re- 
flection, that the Lord was able to deliver them from all their affliction, 
is fully proved by events to have been entirely just. And it was 
cause of thankfulness to the great Disposer of events, that so great a 
calamity was not permitted to fall on the English nation. — Editor of 
Friends' Review. 



REBECCA JONES. 309 

large — both houses full. Second day the 16th. The Meeting for 
Business commenced and ended on the 20th, about 1^ o'clock. 
All the meetings were large and much favored." " 24th. M. 
Routh and M. Mifflin attended our Monthly Meeting. Six cou- 
ples passed." 

About this time are noted many visits to the sick, frequently 
in association with Martha Routh ; also memoranda of the death 
of many of her acquaintances ; and of visits received from her 
friends, the catalogue of whom presents a noble array of indi- 
viduals, whose qualities and Christian graces would have enno- 
bled any age or country. Whilst, for the sake of brevity, wu 
have, in omitting these, omitted a very considerable portion of 
her diaries; we have been touched in the contemplation of the 
train ofredeen^ed ones, who doubtless have " through faith, ob- 
tained the resurrection, and eternal holy life," and been merged 
in the " innumerable company " to whom we are assured that 
the subject of these memoirs has also been joined. 

Richard Routh and Jesse Kersey being about to embark for 
England, R. J. went with Martha Routh and several friends to 
visit the ship on the 30th of Fifth month, on which day she notes 
— " John and Ann Warder, intending for Newport Y. Meeting, 
kindly offered me a seat in their carnage, which, for a time, 
looked pleasant ; but this prospect having clouded over, I in- 
formed Ann that I had quite given it up, at which she was much 
affected, having been pleased with the idea of my company." 



CHAPTER XV. 

1804. 

Death of Wm. Savery — Jacob Beck's lines on the occasion — Letters 
and notes — New Year's reflections 1805 — Ann Alexander — Yearly 
Meeting — M. Routh sails for England — Letter to M. R. — Dorothy 
Ripley — Deathof B. Cathrall and wife, and Rachel Collins— Yellow- 
Fever — Goes to Darby — Interesting letter to Mary Bevan — Returns 
to the Court. 

" Sixth month 19th, 1804. — Third-day. This morning, before 



310 MEMORIALS 01 

I was up, Ruth Ely sent to let me know that our endeared bro- 
ther, Wm. Savery, departed about six o'clock, very quietly, 
though unexpectedly at the time, having rode out the day before, 
and seemed rather better. But in the night the dropsical symp- 
toms increased, and the water rising, it is believed proved suffo- 
cating. His last words were " Glory to God !" His remains 
were kept till 3 o'clock on Fourth-day, when, instead of taking 
him to the burial ground, he was, at M. Routh's request, taken 
to our North Meeting House, where M. R. had a short testimony 
to his worth as a minister, fellow member, and fellow citizen, 
greatly beloved for the work's sake. Elizabeth Foulke appeared 
in prayer, and in a very heavy rain his body was taken to our 
ground, and decently interred there. 

" While the glad soul borne on some cherub's wing, 
Attends the throne of her celestial King, 
To claim the promised Palm in JESUS' name, 
And join in worship with a serpent's flame." 

" Thus it is, my cotemporaries, friends, and acquaintances, 
are called hence one after another, and I, a monument of divine 
mercy and compassion, am spared a little longer. May the 
deep enquiry, for what end 1 be constantly with me, and may 
my blessed Lord and Master enable me, with increasing diligence, 
to finish the work he has given me to do ; — rso as that I also 
may end in peace, with the like triumphant song of 'Glory to 
God in the highest,' is my fervent prayer. 

'" Now this 21st of Sixth month, great and heavy rains have 
fallen for three days past, without much intermission ; also much 
rain in the past week. It is feared that the grain will be nearly 
lost, as well as the hay, abundance of which has perished. What a 
humbling prospect this affords to us poor, short-sighted mortals. 
Truly we are nothing, nor can do any thing, in promoting tem- 
poral or spiritual good, without the Lord is pleased to bless the 
work in and for us." 

In Front street, opposite the end of Brook's court, stood, at 
the tuTie of which we write, Peter Brown's blacksmith shop, 



REBECCA JO.NES. 311 

where was employed as foreman, Jacob B k, an elderly man, 

and a sober minded Methodist, who had lost three daughters in 
the yellow fever of 1802. Wm. Savery had in this, as in many 
other instances, devoted much personal attention, at the risk of 
his own life. A few days after the decease of W. S. this man 
went up the Court to fill his noggin at R. J.'s pump, which, on 
account of the quality of the water, was resorted to by persons 
from many squares distant. Seeing her seated by her open window, 
he accosted her. " May be you won't have any objections to hear- 
ing a hymn I've made to sing over my work ;" adding that it 
helped his mind to soar, while his hands were engaged in neces- 
sary labor. He then proceeded to sing his verses with much 
emotion, which, with no claim to poetical elegance, contained a 
warm expression of regard for the virtues and value of William 
Savery, clearly showing that a memorial to the worth of this 
" disinterested and faithful minister of Christ," as his venerable 
biographer has appropriately styled him, lived in the hearts of 
others than his own people. And truly his solicitude to do good 
to the bodies and souls of men, was limited by no sectarian 
boundary.* 

Seventh month 18th. After noting a recent failure of her 
health, she adds, — " Yet I have mostly attended meetings, where 
once S. Starr and Thomas Scattergood were prophetic, in pros- 
pect of some impending calamity, for which, may the Lord pre- 
pare us." 

Having during a brief absence from home, attended meetings, 
she notes, Tenth month 8th, *' M. Routh is still in Jersey, labor- 
ing for the good of souls. Ann Alexander and companion, and 

* Altho' this " hymn" (as he styled it) was certainly not intended to 
create a smile, a sample of it may as a curiosity amuse the reader. 

" Oh the nineteenth of June Eighteen hundred and four, 

Was a sorrowful day to full many a score 
Of the children of Adam — for on that sad day 

The spirit of Savery did thus soar away 
To the regions of bliss and of endless delight, 

Where Jesus doth reign and there is no night — 
For HE is the sun that enlightens the land. 

And Savery the faithful stands at his right hand." 



312 MEMORIALS OF 

Joseph Bowne, reached this city the 29th ult, and left it the 6th 
inst., for Baltimore Yearly Meeting, expecting to move towards 
Carolina, &c. This morning Joseph Bowne, on his return, 
called at my house. The mercy of God is indeed inexpressibly 
great to us poor creatures, and humility, gratitude and fear, 
ought to be our clothing, under the signal display of his kindness 
in sparing us this summer from the yellow fever, about which my 
fellow citizens were greatly intimidated in the time of its usual ap- 
proach. May my soul forever bear in mind the Lord's goodness 
to me, a poor unworthy creature, in: raising me again from the 
bed of languishing under that sore disease, in the year 1793. Just 
eleven years ago, wanting three days, was I seized therewith. 
Oh, it is the renewed anniversary of a very solemn time to me. 
Joseph Cloud, who has lately returned from Great Britain, 
took a solemn farewell at our meeting yesterday morning, intend- 
ing to go to his native home, in North Carolina." 



To Martha Allinson. 

Philadelphia^ 10th mo.'27th, 1804. 

My dear friend, — Thy sisterly disposition to oblige a fee- 
ble fellow pilgrim, claims my sincere and grateful acknowledg- 
ment. I am deficient in my returns to thy last two very acceptable 
epistles, and hope thou wilt continue to feel love enough in thy 
heart, to induce thee to forgive past omissions, and to write 
freely whenever thou art, by the great and good Remembrancer, 
reminded of poor me. I can assure thee that I do love all my 
Burlington friends. I had your last Quarterly meeting in con- 
templation, but failed in that, as I have in many other instances, 
when I came to put things in the right balance. 

Please accept the enclosed, — they are to be valued only on ac- 
count of their being manufactured by the Friends, whilst prison- 
ers at York Castle, Great Britain, for their testimony against 
tythes. 

I expect thou hast heard of dear A. Alexander's movements, 



REBECCA JONES. 3]3 

and that W C has family visiting before him, to begin 

at Pine street. 

I have not forgotten any of my old fellow travellers — no not 
even those who reside in and near the quiet city of Burlington. 
G. and S. D., I and A. Cox, S. and S. Emlen, the Hoskinses, 
the Smiths, the Morrises &c., &c. * * * 

" Eleventh month 1st. — I have endeavored to look at my friend 
M. Routh's proposal for me to join her proposed family visit to 
our disowned members, but cannot find that it is my business, 
nor that my bodily powers are equal to such an exposure, the 
ensuing winter." 

" 7th. Our Quarterly Meeting, held the 3d and 5th, was 
large and favored. M. Routh, Martha Allinson, L. Hoskins, C. 
Cook, &c. &c., attended it. On Third-day, the 6th, our week 
day meeting, and a large one for the black people, which was 
solemn. T. Scattergood had the service." 

" 10th. Great depression of both body and mind attended 
me, insomuch, that at seasons I was indeed ready to conclude 
myself altogether unworthy of the notice even of my dear 
friends. But I endeavored to look up to, and put my trust in 
my alone Friend, Benefactor, and Saviour, whose compassion is 
unfailing, and whose mercies are new every morning. Blessed 
be his holy Name — Great is his faithfulness — great his Truth !" 

" First-day morning, the 11th, got to our meeting, and felt a 
renewal of the spirit of prayer, which bowed both mind and 
body under it." 

" Twelfth month 4th. At our Monthly Meeting a solemn quiet 
prevailed. Our brethren were engaged about a testimony for 
our late brother W, Savery,of which S. Smith gave me a satisfac- 
tory account.* On Third-day, the 11th, our meeting was a 
season of great favor, through the ministry of J. Simpson and 
T. Scattergood. Next day, being in company with dear Rebec- 



* For this testimony of Northern District Monthly Meeting, and for 
an interesting and instructive biography of Wm. Savery, compiled by, 
Jonathan Evans, see Friends'Library, vol. 1 

27 



314 MEMORIALS OF 

ca Wright, she and I took sweet counsel together, and her spirit 
and company were precious to me, as in former years." 

" First month 1st, 1805. — Now opens another year, and that 
I am spared to this time is marvellous in my eyes. O Lord my 
God, be graciously pleased to look down with an eye of compas- 
sion upon me, now in my declining years, even as thou, in thy 
adorable goodness and mercy, didst in the days of my youth, 
when being but sixteen years of age, thy gracious visitation of 
pardoning Love, Grace, and Salvation plucked my soul as a 
brand from the burning, cast thy mantle of forgiveness and 
mercy over me, and with a powerful voice said unto me, ' Live.' 
Every part of thy blessed covenant, thou, my heavenly Father, 
hast fulfilled — no part thereof hast thou broken. Thou hast 
supplied me with all things necessary, so that I have not lacked 
anything ! I have often broken my covenant with thee ; I have 
repeatedly transgressed, and thou hast abundantly pardoned. 
Continue thy rod and thy staff to the end of my days here, and 
oh, FOR THv DEAR son's SAKE, grant my poor soul an admis- 
sion into everlasting rest, when it shall please thee to call me 
hence, is, thou knowest, my fervent prayer this evening. Eight 
o'clock." 

"Second month 2d. Seventh-day. — Went to our Select 
Quarterly Meeting with N. Wain, in his carriage. John Letch- 
worlh was received a minister, and two elders and a minister 
from Muncy were accepted." 

" 11th. Ann Alexander had weighty service at meeting. I 
stopped to hear and judge of an epistle from A. A. to the in- 
habitants of Charlestown." 

R. J. being closely united with her friend Ann Alexander, 
notes frequent attendance of meetings with her ; among others 
she mentions "large and much favored meetings" held by her 
appointment, for the inhabitants at large, on the 19th, 20th, and 
21st of Third month. " A. A. was silent," she writes, " in 
that at Pine street. George Dillwyn had been with her and her 
company to Westtown school and to some meetings in Chester 
county, so he staid to those three meetings, and had good ser- 



REBECCA JONES. 315 

vice there." Fourth month 5th, I went with A. Alexander to 
the scholars meeting,* and afterwards to see all the Friends in 
our almshouses. "f 

" Fifth month 1st. Since the last note our Yearly Meeting 
has been held, and though throughout it was a low time, yet a 
good degree of weight and solemnity attended, and, I trust, some 
strength and encouragement were received by the true burden 
bearers. The women's meetings were held in the new house 
built for that purpose, in Arch street burying ground, and was 
very large. It was said by some men Friends who took the 
account, that sixteen hundred were accommodated in it. G. 
Dillwyn and W. C. made us a visit, and were lively in their ser- 
vice. Charity Cook and Ann Alexander visited the men's meet- 
ing, in which the latter had a lively testimony. I was marvel- 
lously supported in sitting so many long meetings, and for which 
I desire to be humbly thankful to my ever blessed Helper and 
sure Friend. The meeting ended on Seventh-day, about 11 
o'clock, but not as soon as we wished, and hoped it would. 
Yesterday a meeting for other societies was held at the Arch 
street house, at C. Cook's desire, in which she and W. C. had 
the service, and the people were greatly disappointed in not hav- 
ing A. Alexander, who has great acceptance and place with our 
own and other societies. I went with A. A. to visit all the 
Friends in our alms houses, and to the three schools in our 
Northern house, in which she had something lively to offer." 

"Fifth month 5th. A. Alexander had a large meeting for the 
inhabitants of this city, in our new house on Arch street, and 
was greatly favored therein, as also at our Quarterly Meeting, 
which M. Routh attended in silence. On the 9th was held the 
Quarterly Meeting for the black people, and was the last meet- 



* Meetings were held for the pupils of Friends' schools at the corner 
of Fourth and Chestnut streets. 

■j- Some readers may possibly be unaware that these houses were 
provided by Friends, for the comfort and respectable residence of their 
own poor, no Friend being allowed to come upon the public for main, 
tenance. 



316 MEMORIALS OF 

ing of the sort, as Friends, upon weighty deliberation, were 
united in the belief that the service of them was over, and they 
have now several places for worship of their own ; of which 
they were very judiciously and affectionately informed by Nicho- 
olas Wain, and the meeting ended with solemnity. At this 
meeting Ann Alexander was remarkably engaged in testimony." 

" 8th. Although very poorly, I rose timely for going to John 
Warder's, from whence Ann Alexander took her departure for 
the Yearly Meeting at New York, intending from thence to take 
her passage to Ireland. We parted in the love of our heavenly 
Father, and my prayers are for her preservation every way, as 
for my own soul." 

" After this I went but little out except to our own meeting, 
and in attending to business relative thereto, till the 25th, when 
I went to James Pemberton's and took an affectionate leave of 
dear Martha Routh, who about noon went on board the ship 
Rose, Capt. Hathaway, bound for Liverpool. May divine Mercy 
be with her, and protect and carry her in safety and peace to 
her desired port, is my fervent prayer." 

R. J. TO Martha Routh. 

Philadelphia, 5th mo, 29th, 1805. 

My dearly beloved friend and sister, — Feeling my heart this 
morning renewedly bound to thee in the precious fellowship of 
the gospel, in the afflictions whereof I have also often been thy 
companion, I have called for pen and ink, to salute thee on board 
the Rose. And perhaps my salutation may soon after thy ar- 
rival be put into thy band. 

My feelings on parting with thee at J. P.'s last Seventh-day, 
amidst such a concourse of thy friends, were indescribable, fully 
believing that though we may never more meet in mutability, our 
spirits will not be separated by either distance of time or space. 
I don't dare to say that thou wilt never see America again ; that 
and all future events I desire to leave to thy blessed Master, who 
hath often made a way for thee, even when thou couldst see no 



REBECCA JONES. 317 

way. And he will not forsake thee, nor suffer thee to become 
desolate, "Because he [also she'] hath set his love upon me, 
therefore will I deliver him ; I will set him on high, because he 
hath known my name ; he shall call upon me, and I will answer 
him,"&c. Read the 91st Psalm. This gracious promise, so 
replete with Mercy and Goodness, springs sweetly in my re- 
membrance, as a portion especially designed for thy inheritance, 
now, after thy retreat from our laborious field, wherein thou hast 
not fainted, nor thy store-house exhausted, but to the very last 
thy horn hath been so evidently replenished from the all bounte- 
ous fountain as that no vessel on thy departure was sent empty 
away. Well, my dear friend, count it no strange thing if thy 
faith and patience be again proved. Thou knowest too well the 
danger of pleasant things, to look for or desire them further than 
in the will of Him who doeth all things icell, and who h5th, in 
the promise alluded to, given thee the fullest assurance of his 
care and protection through thy painful pilgrimage — thy alpha 
indeed— and will also reward thy unwearied endeavors to pro- 
mote his blessed cause and testimony on earth, with a peaceful 
admission among his faithful servants, when thy tribulations and 
labors are over — thy ever blessed omega — thy "evening song." 

After meeting on First-day, I took a pensive walk to thy late 
quarters, and with J. and P. Pemberton communed about thee. 
* * We concluded that we loved thee quite as well as fellow 
disciples ought, so that I came home fully paid for my walk. 

I wanted, only I feared interrupting thy exercise, which was 
to he felt, to desire thee to tell my friends in England, my dear 
C. Hustler and daughter in particular, also J. and E. Bludvvick, 
J. Thorp, S. Benson and children, Richard Reynolds, Deborah 
Darby, and her sisters M. and Sarah, R. Young, &c. &c., that 
I am fast growing old, and my sight being dim, prevents my 
saluting them on paper ; but that my love continues strong for 
them, and for all who love and live near the blessed truth. * * 

From Friends at New Bedford and elsewhere! have no doubt 
thou wilt receive many letters ; and mine, if it get not first to 
hand, may be left awhile, as from a poor old Scribe, yet no 

21* 



318 MEMORIALS OF 

Pharisee, but thy sincere and unabated friend and sister in the 
sufferings of the present day. 

Oh do let me hear soon from thee. 




" Sixth month 27th, 1805. — Saw a paragraph taken from 
a York paper, certifying that Dorothy Ripley is not a member 
of the Society of Friends. Received letters from Henry Tuke, 
D. Darby, R. Y. Byrd, John Waring, M. R., &c. &c., and 
visits from S. Emlen, G. Dilhvyn, Richard Hartshorne, John 
Hoskins, and several other Friends. Answered divers Eng- 
lish letters." 

" Seventh month 8th. Ann Alexander, S. Proctor, and John 
Warder, Jr., sailed the 27th of last- month, in the ship Wm. 
Penn. Stephen Grellet came yesterday to see me. He is on a 
visit to Friends in the compass of this Yearly Meeting. Heard 
that Dorothy Ripley is holding meetings about New York, and 
passes for a Friend, and that she is coming to this city. Friends 
of High street, last Fifth day removed their week-day meet- 
ing to the new house on Arch-street, 16th. T. Scattergood 
took an affectionate Leave of our North Meeting. He is bound 
in spirit to the boarding school at Westtown." 

Her friend Benjamin Cathrall being ill, R. J. made him 
many visits, and on the 22d of Seventh month she notes his 
quiet departure, adding, " I always thought him more in reli- 
gious substance than show. I believe he was a man of integri- 
ty, and that he has gone to the mansions of the blessed." 
His widow's decease she also records, on the 16th of the ensu- 
ing month, by which event Hannah Cathrall being deprived of 
her home, R. J.'s sympathies were called into exercise, until a 
suitable abode was furnished for her old friend and former part- 
ner, then in declining health,* with Hannah, widow of Isaac 
Cathrall, sr. " I hope" says R. J., " she will be rewarded with 
peace for so doing." " My old friend and fellow laborer, 
Samuel Smith," she says, " seems declining, and the prospect 



REBECCA JONES. 319 

of a further stripping to our North Meeting, feels heavy to my 
poor weak mind, but it is our business to learn to say in 
truth, ' The Lord's will be done.' " 

The yellow fever broke out in the Eighth month, in South- 
wark, " as low down as Christian street," and considerable 
alarm was excited. R. J. had however, previously determined, 
on account of the heat, to leave the city, and on the 22d 
she and her small family went to " Kingsess farm," near Darby. 
The fever spread beyond her anticipation, and some of her 
friends died in it ; also a number of deaths occurred near her 
residence. In reference to this, she says, about two months 
subsequently, — " When I reflect on the awfulness of this and 
former similar dispensations, my soul is humbled within me, 
and a fervent prayer is raised in my soul, that I, for one, and 
that all, may so humbly bow under the Lord's hand, which 
has been so often stretched out in judgment, as that we may all 
learn righteousness, and so, through Divine assistance, order our 
conversation aright, as to bring honor and glory to the Name 
of the Most High, and thereby obtain eternal salvation. Even 
so be it, Lord, amen 1" To S. Smith, near the same date, she 
remarks, " Many of the cotemporaries of my youth being by 
death and otherwise, removed, I seem stript and lonely, and 
feel no inclination to begin a new circle, so that with regret I 
shall part with any more of the few who remain, with whom I 
have been united in the bond of Christian fellowship, drinking 
together at the one inexhaustible fountain of love and life." 
She notes that New York was at the same time " largely and 
mortally" affected by the same contagion, and that Rachel, 
wife of Isaac Collins, is deceased with it," adding, " she was 
an amiable woman, and will be greatly missed." 

This lovely, accomplished and excellent woman died 9 Mo. 
14th, 1805, — and her loss excited general sympathy with her 
bereaved husband and her children (13 in number.) A Journal 
of that day speaks of " her many virtues, her sweetness of dispo- 
sition, suavity of manners, and uncommonly cultivated and 
well informed mind, which shone conspicuously in the best im- 



320 MEMORIALS OF 

proved society." George Dillwyn, in a letter to Isaac Coliins, 
senior, on the subject says — " I have often noticed, that such 
intelligence has been preceded by an uncommon depression or 
mind," — and describing his heaviness of heart, which had con- 
tinued without intermission, until the account was brought to 
him, he adds — " Such intelligence, we might naturally sup- 
pose, was more likfely to increase than abate sorrow ; but truly 
it proved like rolling a stone from a well's mouth ; a tendering 
joy arose, and settled in a quieting, clear persuasion (which 
still survives,) that all is well and for ever well with dear 
Rachel Collins." 

_ To Mary, wife of Joseph Gurney Bevan, she writes Nintli 
month 23d, as follows : 

" The reading of thy very acceptable and interesting letter 
of 26th and 27th of Seventh mo., was indeed ' like cold water 
to a thirsty soul,' for notwithstanding thy own account ot 
thyself, thy jealousies, thy fears, my own mind was solaced 
in the belief that thou art deepening in the ground of living 
concern for the promoting of the one blessed cause of Truth 
and Righteousness, and the preservation of our fellow disci- 
ples in all their united endeavors, that all may, by keeping in 
their proper ranks, more safely and wisely, and the great 
and blessed Head of his own church be looked to, waited reve- 
rently upon, and obeyed and honored in and over all^, in 
time and eternity. A concern like this, not of our own but of 
the heavenly Father's begetting, if rightly cherished and 
yielded to, must and will most assuredly, drawdown his peculiar 
notice and approbation ; be promotive of increasing labor, and 
eventually crowned with the blessing of soul enriching peace. 
So do be encouraged, for now is thy time, to press forward in 
all things, in obedience to manifested duty. And in more im- 
portant service, such as our large annual assemblies, fear not to 
sound the alarm in times of danger, such as the multiplying of 
words without knowledge, bringing, as Esther Tuke once said, 
* more stuff than is wanted, or handing bricks when mortar is 

called for,' &;c., all which I have often been a pained witness of 



REBECCA JONES. 321 

and of latter time have had to testify against, even when, at the 
same time, the language of my tongue and pen has been ' arise 
and huilcl^ So that, as that wisdom which is profitable to di- 
rect is waited for, and its qualifying power felt to preside in the 
church, we shall all grow up together, an holy temple in the 
Lord. I sometimes look mentally at your women's Yearly 
Meeting — indeed always at the times when you are convened, 
and as often I feel united to many of my sisters, both youth and 
others, in a lively travail of spirit, that all things may ' be done 
decently and in order,' and that, by each keeping rank, those 
in the rear may not, through want of vigilance and dedication 
in the fore front, be jostled, or kept from advancing in that rec- 
titude and valor so justly and emphatically described in the 
words, ' an army with banners.' 

" Our late Yearly Meeting was held in the new house, built 
for the accommodation of women Friends, which is found con- 
venient, and will be more so when our brethren shall build one 
for themselves, as contemplated, on the same lot, in unison with 
it. We had no European Friend but A. Alexander,* and she 
a silent witness of our movements. 

" I have transmitted to our dear G. Dillwyn, who truly is by 
me a brother beloved, in as high a degree as is right to indulge, 
thy salutation, and a similar one from A. Alexander, who sup- 
posed she was comforted by his and my mental visits to her 
whilst on the ocean, and have just received a pleasant letter 
from him, in which is the following paragraph : 

" 1 have for some years past entertained dear A. A.'s idea, 
of substituting mental for epistolary visits ; but alas ! it has 
proved somewhat like the Welchman's cow, which he thought 
might be trained to live without eating. As if to convince me 
that the scheme was too refined for practice on this stage of 
beiog, when this would-he-visiter has been seemingly reduced 
by abstinence, almost to a skeleton, something like the present 
supply has come to hand, and put me quite out of conceit of the 

*0f course she means on the women's side. 



322 MEMORIALS OF 

notion. Thou, too, or I am mistaken, hast more than once 
thought of compassing the same end." And so he tells me of 
my declaring myself insolvent, &c., and that he supposes I got 
something handsome by it, for he observed that not long after I 
lived away, in as high style as before, and thus he concludes 
the subject. " In short, I question if we had not as well submit 
to trudge on in the common track, and not pretend to be wise 
above that which is written, unless we can agree with our 
younger friends, A. Alexander and M. Bevan, that they shall 
continue their pape?' visits to us and to such as we, and accept 
of tnental ones in return, till they also reach their grand cli- 
macteric. As to M. B., seeing she has thought fit thus far to 
tantalize me, do thou tell her that one of the ways in which 
' Self-Love' may show itself, is, to excite gratitude and affection 
by fair promises, and keep the contents to ourselves ; and that 
if her motire for so doing turns out to be pride, thou wouldst have 
her get rid of it out of hand, that this naughty inmate may no 
longer hinder me from answering her spouse's letter. So far 
from G. D." * * * 

In the same letter, under date of Tenth month 15th, she ac- 
knowledges the receipt of some books, "also the piece of which 
thy J. G. B. is the author. It is so like his manner that I be- 
lieve I should have guessed the author, had his name not been 
given. I much desire that this and all his religious endeavors 
may be blessed to the help and furtherance of that good work 
to which you have both put your hands. I hear that H. Bar- 
nard has lately published one volume containing her account of 
Friends' proceedings in her case, and that she is very busy in 
preparing a second. 

" It seems as if my beloved C. Hustler will hardly be able 
to visit your metropolis many times more. But, whether or not, 
I do believe she has in great sincerity endeavored to advocate 
\\\e cause of Truth and Righteousness, and that her reward will 
be Peacf, here and forever. I have loved her as my own soul. 

" Innocent Ann Christy must be in better health, to under- 
take such a journey. Edinbro, though a dark spot when I was 



REBECCA JONES. 323 

there, I ventured to say that if that old rotten stump * * 
could be rennoved, I had a hope sonnething green and clever 
would have room to spring up and grow, so that I am glad of 
thy account so far. 

" Is Kendal's second volume of Extracts published ? I wish 
to have it. Thomas Scattergood, with his wife and daughter, 
are still at Westtown, whither he has felt his mind drawn, and 
where he has been nearly three months as a teacher, much to 
the satisfaction of Friends.* We, however, expect that he will 
shortly feel himself released. What a dear devoted servant is 
that D. Darby. Nor less so her near friend R. Byrd. They 
remind me of a saying of our dear N. Wain, — * It is better to 
wear away than to rust away.' H. Hull will not be likely soon 
to visit you, nor do I hear of any Friend who has so weighty 
a prospect at present. I say weighty, for such I found it, 
and so I hope it will be felt, especially at such a time 
as this, a time in which all the sympathy of feeling minds is and 
must be called forth, yet not without hope that all things will 
work together for good, to such as love the Lord Jesus, the 
Prince of Peace, the Saviour of men, in sincerity, and unfeign- 
edly endeavor and desire that his kingdom may come, and over 
all be exalted, and his righteous government and peace never 
come to an end. 

" Thy concluding sentiment, that * it don't seem so difficult an 
attainment to rejoice when Truth is in dominion, as to suffer with 
due subjection and patience when that does not seem apparently 
the case,' has done me good, and is well worth adopting and 



•This expression may perhaps lead the readers of the Review to sup- 
pose that Thomas Scattergood was occupied in one or more of the 
schools, in the capacity of a teacher. He was there very acceptably 
to Friends of that place, and no doubt to the committee who had the 
general oversight of the school, but his labors were devoted principally 
if not exclusively, to the religious and moral instruction of the pupils, 
and to the encouragement and support of those who were entrusted 
with the immediate management of the seminary. The influence of his 
example and counsel were probably felt much more, in all parts of the 
institution, than it could have been, if he had been confined to the in- 
struction of ihe pupils in any of the schools. — En. Friexds' Review. 



324 MEMORIALS OF 

bearing in remembrance, through all the ascendings and de- 
scendings of such poor pilgrims as myself, and is also worth its 
postage from your once favored isle to this land, which has 
undergone changes and suffering beyond what our forefathers 
ever looked for. 

"I am, dear Mary, thy sincere and affectionate friend, 




Tenth month 23d. — " This day we returned to my habitation, 
in Brook's court, where, finding that all had, with ourselves, 
been under Divine protection, my soul worshipped the God and 
Father of all my mercies, and craved to be kept by him unto 
the end of my pilgrimage. Eleventh month 2d and 4th. Our 
Quarterly Meeting was large and solemn, D. Bacon and S. 
Smith absent from sickness, but Friends being generally re- 
turned from the country, were rejoiced to see each other." 



CHAPTER XVI. 

1805—1813. 

Letter to M. Jeffries — Marriage of James and B. AlUnson — Letters to 
them — Eclipse and note by E. Lewis respecting it — Death of H. 
Cathrall — Painful circumstances — Letters — Goes to New York — 
Returns — Death of John Teas — Yearly Meeting — Death of K. 
Howell, James Simpson, C. Hustler and James Allinson — Letter to 
S. Hustler — Death of R. Wright — Mentions Susanna Home. 

R. J. TO Mary Jeffries. 

Philadelphia^ 3c? mo. Ist, 1805. 
Dear Mary Jeffries, * * * Increasing infirmities, with 
old age coming fast upon me, have prevented my seasonable 
returns to many other epistles from your land besides thine, so 



REBECCA JONES. 325 

that I am thereby deprived of those frequent little " brooks by 
the way," which for many years have been very refreshing 
and strengthening to my poor mind ; the secret past conflicts 
whereof, as also the exercises of the present time, are known 
only to Him whose " eyes behold, and whose eyelids try the 
children of men." I have, however, abundant cause for hum- 
ble thankfulness that the best life is, I trust, still preserved, so 
that I can say in sincerity, " I love the brethren ;" and this is, 
at times, my only joyous experience. Well, dear Mary, thou 
art comfortably among thine own people, where, if enough at- 
tentive to divine counsel, thou wilt not sink into a state of inac- 
tivity ; remember, the time of youth is the fittest time for action, 
and when the query is proposed in the secret of thy mind, 
" whom shall we send, and who will go for us ?" may the dedi- 
cated reply of thy heart be, " Here am I, Lord, send me." So 
will thy experience in the strength of salvation be increased, 
and thy day's work be going on with the day ; and finally, as 
our late dear friend, Wm. Savery, has done, close thy season 
of labor with " glory to God," and lay down thy head in 
peace. 

By some late account from thee, it is probable thy dear father 
has joined his spirit to many who are already members of the 
church triumphant. " Blessed are the dead who die in the 
Lord," &c., is often the language of my waiting spirit on hear- 
ing such tidings, because the " living who are yet alive," are so 
liable to the assaults and buffetings of that Power which con- 
tinues to wage war against " Michael and his angels ;" but the 
Lamb and his followers shall have the victory! and " this is our 
victory, even our faith." 

My B. C. has lately lost her dear mother at Cape May, who 
left eight children ; and having expressed a desire that I might 
take her daughter Elizabeth,* she is added to my family, 
and is No. 3 ; but I fear my being able to do justice by her, 



* This young friend grew up under R. J.'s care, and remained her 
constant and affectionate companion to her close. 

28 



326 MEMORIALS OF 

only that her sister B. is very capable to instruct and edu- 
cate her. 

To hear of my friends in your land is always gratifying, 
and very much so is any account of my ever dear friend C. 
Hustler and hers. She, like myself, is bending towards out 
original dust, and on her account, I have no doubt but when 
called home, she will be found in a state of readiness to enter 
the Bridegroom's chamber, and "for ever solace in his love." 
And oh, saith my soul, that I may also be counted worthy 
of an admittance thereinto when my short span of time shall 
terminate. 

" New Year's day, 1806. At home, and favored with a 
peaceful mind. Lord, grant that I may be so sensible of the 
multiplied mercies which thou hast bountifully heaped upon 
me, that I may walk in fear and reverence before thee all the 
days of my life, and finally die in thy favor and acceptance. 

Last evening, paid us a family visit. He was 

dipped in sympathy with my aged and infirm state, and im- 
parted sweet counsel to my dear B., telling her that he fully be- 
lieved that a singular blessing awaited her. In the close of the 
opportunity my soul secretly exclaimed ; He hath crowned and 
closed the year with his goodness ! 

" First month, 5th. My old friend, H. Cathrall, had yester- 
day another stroke of palsy, which deprived her of the use 
of her left arm and hand. I spent this afternoon with her. 
She was sensible, and in a broken, contrite state of mind. 
In the evening I got to a large meeting at High street, which 
was a quiet, low time. 

" 12th, First day. Our meeting this morning was a precious 
season ; dear S. Smith ministered in great weakness. T, Scat- 
tergood had also good service. Prostration of body and soul 
was my portion therein. In the afternoon I staid with H. Cath- 
rall, who grows more weak. May the Lord be pleased to make 
her more easy, both here and for ever! 

" 17th. H. Drinker brought me $22, for eleven poor widows." 

In her diary, under date of the 22d, she notes a visit from J. 



REBECCA JONES. 32? 

A., who opened to her his views respecting a matrimonial con- 
nexion with her B. C. For this the mind of R. J. was alreaay 
prepared, under a conviction that these young Friends were by 
their heavenly Parent designed and fitted for each other, and 
she says, " I let him know that I could have no other objection, 
than the prospect of parting with her now in my declining years; 
that if they sought for best counsel, and obtained it, so as that 
they might be united in the Lord's fear, I should not dare to op- 
pose it.' The further memoranda of R. J. on this subject, 
touchingly illustrate the closeness of the union which subsisted 
between this mother and her child, our aged friend disinterest- 
edly and nobly taking part against herself, and overcoming her 
B.'s dutiful reluctance to leave her venerable parent in her de- 
clining years. 

It is however due from the compiler to say that the insertion 
of this and other references to his beloved parent is contrary to 
her request, and without her consent. He cannot join in her 
humble estimate of herself, nor can he wholly disconnect her his- 
tory from that of one to whom she was so endeared, and to 
whose comfort she was so essential — and in his decision on this 
delicate point, he has been influenced by the counsel of judicious 
friends. 

" Fourth month, 26th. Our Yearly Meeting is just ended. By 
an attack of erysipelas, I have been prevented from getting out 
(save once) in the last two weeks. This, with the prospect of 
my beloved child being likely, in a few weeks after her marri- 
age, to remove to New York, has been deeply trying ; but He 
who furnished this innocent plant to me in a time of great need, 
is able still to supply all my wants. On him, therefore, I de- 
sire to depend, and humbly crave, for her and for myself, that 
we may be continued, as we have for many years been, the ob- 
jects of his divine compassion and care through time, and land 
safe in a happy eternity. Amen, saith my soul. Many friends 
have called to see me, with whom I have sweet fellowship — par- 
ticularly dear Martha Allinson and her children. 

" 29th. At our Monthly Meeting J. and B. declared their in- 



328 MEMORIALS OF 

tentions in a very solemn and becoming manner. T. Scatter- 
good came into our meeting with James, and language of en- 
couragement was handed through John Parrish and others. Al- 
so, in the evening, at my house, T. Scattergood had a sweet tes- 
timony. It was a day of favor. 

" Sixth month 3d. Were married at our North Meeting, James 
Allinson and Bernice Chattin. They were solid and weighty in 
their deportment, and a favored meeting it was, in which T. 
Scattergood was engaged in testimony and supplication." 

Her letters to her " children," as she called them, were now 
numerous, and much more frequent than to other correspond- 
ents, and were fraught with tenderest maternal feelings. From 
these we shall extract sparingly. Sixth month 16th, in a letter 
to them she says : — " In our meeting to-day I had silently to 
worship the God of my life, to commit and commend you into the 
arms of His goodness and mercy, (which have followed me all my 
life long,) and to bless and praise his great and excellent name on 
your account and my own. May the Lord- condescend to bless 
you in your new habitation, that thereby it may be. indeed, like 
the house of Obededom, where his ark found a resting place. I 
have been looking to-day at the eclipse, which led me to ex- 
claim with the Psalmist, " In wisdom hast thou made them all."* 

* The circumstance of looking at an eclipse my appear like a very- 
common affair. But the eclipse on the 16th of Sixth month 1806, was 
a very unusual one. It was one in which, as seen at Philadelphia, 
more than eleven-twelfths of the sun's surface was covered ; and though 
the day was unclouded, everything seemed to assume a sombre ap- 
pearance. It occurred at a season of the year when the earth was 
nearly at its greatest distance from the sun, when, of course, the ap- 
parent diameter of that luminary was near its minimum ; at the same 
time the moon was not far from the point in its orbit nearest the earth, 
when its apparent diameter was consequently near its maximum. In 
some of the Northern States the eclipse was total, the sun being there 
for a time entirely obscured. This is a phenomenon which few per- 
sons have the opportunity of witnessing. Dr. Halley asserts that he 
could not find that a total eclipse had been visible at London between 
the years 1140 and 1715. Within the last sixty years, two eclipses 
have been visible at Philadelphia, in which the central parts of the sun 
were obscured, leaving merely a luminous ring around the darkened 
portion of the sun. At the time of a total eclipse of the sun, the plan- 
ets and some of the brightest fixed stars have come into view. — Editor 
Friends' Review. 



REBECCA JONES. 329 

Dear T. Scattergood has again gone to spend some time at 
Westtown School, so that our poor North Meeting must en- 
deavor to be content with more silence. And yet we often have 
favored seasons, and sometimes life is raised through the gos- 
pel. May you, with your sister M., experience the force of the 
ancient assertion, ' Two are better than one, and a threefold 
cord is not easily broken.' May that gracious God, who has 
been with, fed and supported me all my life long, take the gov- 
ernment and direction ; and may your wills be so brought into 
subjection to his blessed will, as that he may mercifully conde- 
scend to hear you when you call upon him, and answer all your 
requests when, in innocence and uprightness, you intercede with 
him. It is a comfort to me that dear Margaret remains, that 
you may take sweet counsel together, going up to the house 
of God in company. I want B. to remember that she has called 
me by the endearing epithet of mother ; and come at a suitable 
time to see me and others whom she has left behind, who know 
how to value and love intrinsic worth. I feel as nearly for thy 
present and everlasting welfare as it is possible for a mother to 
feel. I think of thee when sitting at my meals — in my lonely 
evening hours — in the night season, on my bed — and when as- 
sembled with the northern flock. May the certificate about to 
be forwarded bind thee more closely to the living members of 
your meeting, and settle thee down as a squared and polished 
stone in that building of which Christ Jesus is the chief corner 
stone, ' in whom' (saith the Apostle) * all the building fitly 
framed, &c., groweth up together an holy temple in the Lord.' " 

" Seventh month 15th. In a letter to B. A., R. J. says: — 
" Dear Samuel Smith spent an hour with me yesterday. I 
mourn in looking at him, so emaciated, so reduced, and so old 
in appearance, that thou wouldst hardly know him ; yet full of 
love and sweetness. I cannot help hoping that he may yet be 
restored to labor and service among us." 

Eleventh month 5th, she writes to B. A. — " Our Quarterly 

Meeting was uncommonly large ; the service in both meetings 

was close and sharp, both from male and female, against de- 

28* 



330 MEMORIALS OF 

traction and spreading of evil reports. We had dear Rebecca 
Wright's company." And Twelfth month 3d, she writes to her 
— '« Our old and afflicted friend, H. Cathrall, has had a more 
general stroke of palsy, and now lies almost lifeless. Her speech 
has almost failed, so that but little has been understood, and for 
the last two days and nights she only breathes. They wet her 
lips, but she does not swallow. For the first eight days she 
knew us all, and 'was full of love and sweetness, — often called 
for me, and begged me not to leave her ; and told me her mind 
was quite easy. Now that her speech has failed, she fixes her 
eyes on me with great affection. I do fully believe she will cen- 
tre in eternal rest and peace. Many friends have manifested 
their love by going to see her. S. Smith, R. Price, &c., spoke 
comfortably to her last First day. Oh, I do look at you with 
love and sweetness, and often remember the saying, " two are 
better than one," &c. May the God of all grace and consola- 
tion be with us, now we are separated ; even as he hath many 
times when thou and I have sat by the light of the same lamp- 
and hath tendered our hearts by the shedding abroad of his love, 
by which we have been united in desire to fear, love and serve 
him for ever and ever. 

P. S.— I open my letter (Sixth day, the 5th,) to mention that 
dear H. C, after laying 72 hours in an easy sleep, quite motion- 
less, quietly breathed her last about 9 o'clock this morning. 

" I am thy unchangeably affectionate mother. 




In her diary after recording the illness and death of her " old 
friend and former companion H. Cathrall," with the particulars 
given in the above letter, she adds — " She was interred 12th mo. 
7th, many friends attending. She died aged 70 years, and near 
six . months, and from the sense which was afforded to my mind 
I do believe has gone to rest and peace with her Maker. 
Blessed be his great Name, for his mercies they endure forever." 



REBECCA JONES. 33I 

On the 22d, after referring to two circumstances which had 
deeply afflicted her in common with all Friends, and respecting 
one of which she says, " the thing that I had for many weeks 
feared came upon me like an armed man," — she adds — " These 
cases have raised the necessary prayer for myself and others; — 
oh Lord, in mercy look down upon us — spare thy people, and 
give not thy heritage to reproach : lest the uncircumcised tri- 
umph, and the Philistine nature say, where now is their God. 
I got to meeting in a state of great weakness yesterda)?- morning, 
where solemnity attended, tho' all our harps were on the willows 
hung. Mine still is, and will long remain there, for unless the 
Lord keep us, none other can. T. Scattergood had a sweet time 
in supplication to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 
for preservation through time, and for divine aid to journey on 
m fear and trembling, &c. &c. I went pensively down to J. 
Pemberton's, and staid there the rest of the day, communing 
about what had happened in Israel, and we were very sad. I 
also called on dear S. Smith." 

" 1st mo. 1st., 1807. Dr. Physick has buried his only son; 
which is to them a severe trial — but I say, happy is it for those 
dear lambs who are taken in their innocence from those fiery 
trials, which some even in advanced age are unable to sustain 
unaided by the power of our Almighty Helper." 

Catherine Hartshorne in a letter to R. J., dated 1st mo. 9th, 
says, " I have been often much instructed in remembering some 
conversation in our parlor, between thee and my beloved mother. 
Thou said that thou had a little precious stone of faith in thy 
girdle — which encouraged a belief that thou wouldst be cared 
for. This I fully believe, and it has proved strengthening to me 
many times, in a hope that I may also be thus favored." 

Philadelphia, 1st. Mo. 23d. 1807. 
My dear friend^ — 

Mary Allinson ;— 
I have such confidence in thy friendship that though more 
than a month has elapsed since the receipt of thy short kind 



332 MEMORIALS OF 

address, I trust when thou takes in the several events that have 
occurred, and one more afflicting and awful than I believe ever 
happened in our society before;* thou will readily excuse thy 
poor old friend whose harp has been ever since " hung upon the 
willows," and the garment of mourning and unutterable sorrow 
and astonishment has completely covered my spirit by day and 
by night. So that though I have also deeply and tenderly sym- 
pathized with you, \ have not been able to do more. But as by 
this time the melancholy tidings may have reached England, my 
mind seems somewhat relieved, especially when I remember the 
assertion in Holy Writ, viz : " Mercy rejoiceth against Judg- 
ment"— and that "secret things belong oniy to God," who is 
the Supreme judge of all — and there I wish to leave the scene, — 
and hope so to apply the instruction which it conveys as to re- 
member that " he who thinketh he standeth hath need to take 
heed lest he fall. 

Thy dear mother has had a tedious illness, and very trying I 
know it must have been — but she has been sustained by the 
Great Physician. In sisterly affection salute her for me. Her 
feeling sympathy I have shared in past seasons, and have en- 
joyed her sympathy under the late heavy and afflictive stroke. 

My poor afflicted old companion H. C. as I expect you have 
heard, has bid adieu to mutability^ after a long series of weak- 
ness and pain. I was much with her the last two weeks of her 
time, and from the calm and easy state both of body and mind 
in which she breathed her last, have a comfortable hope that 
" her warfare was accomplished" &c. — and that her evening 
closed in peace 

Our dear friend S. Cresson is in a low spot, but will, i fully 
believe, in the Lord's time, experience the Sun of Righteousness 

*The circumstances to which she here alludes, excited at the time, an 
unprecedented sensation in Philadelphia and its vicinity; and uT-ere 
well calculated to impress the admonition : " Let him that thinketh he 
standeth beware lest he fall." But the particulars having passed away 
from the memories of most of the present generation, need not be ex- 
posed to those who are to come. — En. Friends' Review. 



REBECCA JONES. 333 

to arise with healing in his wmgs." The like comfortable hope 

I have for dear ■ who is so low that she refuses to 

be comforted. Tell thy worthy Mother that in just now look- 
ing towards her, I can adopt the benediction of one formerly, 
" Blessed art thou among women" — because I feel that she is 
under the Great Shepherd's care, who slumbereth not by day 
nor sleepeth by night, and will eventually cause the dispensations 
of his Providence to work together for her good and the good of 
her beloved children. * * * * 

In her diary, 2 mo. 4th 1807, — still dwelling on the anguish 
noted the 22d of 12th month, she says — "My mind from the 
two foregoing sorrowful circumstances, is so sunk, that silence 
and sorrowing seem so fastened thereon, that unless the Lord 
most high (whose voice I have often experienced to be mightier 
than all the noise of the boisterous waves of the billows of 
affliction that have passed over my head) is pleased in mercy 
to relieve help and succor, I shall indeed sink in these deep 
waters, where there is no standing — but with his blessed arm 
underneath there is hope. My dear S. Cresson, who has al- 
ways been, in my view, a precious plant, bemg also in a low 
dejected state of mind, is an addition of grief to my sorrow ; 
and thus 1 exclaim, " Woe is me." Yet on the same day she 
writes to her whom she addressed as her daughter a cheering 
letter fraught with consolation, m which, after commemorating 
the preservmg power of him who sittith with the solitary in 
families, she says, " Blessed be his Name, in that he still 
vouchsafes to be near me now in my old age and under many 
infirmities, or I should fail before him. And when I consider 
my great unworthiness I cannot but exclaim. Lord what am I 
that thou shouldst be mindful of me a poor creature — dust and 
ashes before thee I" — " Dear S. Cresson" she adds, " is a little 
revived, and took part in our Quarterly Meeting on 2d day. 
Our North Meeting have lately raised by collection $800. in 
consideration of the severity of the season upon the poor (not 
members of our Society) in our district ; with which, in wood, 
warm bed clothes, &c., they have relieved many worthy char- 



334 MEMORIALS OF 

acters, who could not make their wants known. Thomas Scat- 
tergood* was at the head of the committee of distribution — 
John Teas also took an active part — and I hope the blessing of 
some who were ready to perish is felt by them as a sweet re- 
ward. It was very seasonably and judiciously done." 

Referring, 4 mo. 12th, to the considerable diminution of her cir- 
cle of acquaintance by many recent deaths, she notes the confirma- 
tion of the Truth that, " One generation passeth and another gene- 
ration Cometh," yet she says, " this consolation remains — the 
Word of the Lord abideth forever, and he, our blessed Creator, in 
his inscrutable wisdom, doeth all things rightly and well.'''' 

"5 Mo ; 14th, Having the offer of going to N. York, in com- 
pany with Richard Jordan, &c., and having been for some time 
inclined to visit my dear children J. and B. A. who are settled in 
that city, I consented. We spent a night at Robert White's and 
another at Richard Hartshorne's, and were joyfully received in 
N. York on the 17th. The Yearly Meeting began the 22d and 
held till the 29th : in which I had some service. I felt near 
unity with many dear friends, and also with some precious 
young plants, whose spirits had a sweetening effect on my poor 
mind." 

To C. Hustler, she writes from New York, 6 mo. 4th, " I 
have been in this city about three weeks, on a visit to my 

* It is a pleasing circumstance to find T. Scattergood, after spending 
a number of years during the prime of his life, in travelling through 
Europe and America, proclaiming the glad tidings of the gospel, now 
in his declining years engaged in relieving the physical wants of that 
worthy class of sufierers, of whom numbers are unquestionably fur- 
nished by every age and country, who being duly conscious of the 
duty of providing for themselves, as long as they have the power 
without pressing upon the charities of the world, are struggling with 
difficulties known only to themselves and to the all penetrating eye. 
If the spirit by which T. Scattergood was actuated, both in his gospel 
labors, and in his works of charity, was more generally prevalent, 
there can be no doubt that many acts of unostentatious benevolence, 
would be extended towards those who are on the verge of want, 
but whose modesty impels them rather to suffer than to make their 
necessities known. Charity is much more worthily bestowed on such 
retiring characters, than upon those who shamelessly flaunt their wants 
in the face of day.— Ed. Friends' Review. 



REBECCA JONES. 335 

daughter who was married to a choice young friend a year 
ago. Oh thou knowest not what a painful thing it was when 
the time of separation came ; but their union was so marked 
with concurrent evidences of its rectitude, that I dared not to 
lift up a finger against it. May the Lord, my gracious Helper, 
bless her every way ! Whenever thy Sarah is thus taken 
from thee, why then thou wilt realize my feelings. The Yearly 
Meeting, held here last week, was a time of favor. I have had 
an opportunity of visiting our friend Elizabeth Coggeshall in 
her own habitation, where she has just arrived after an arduous 
journey through our Continent, which engaged her for more 
than a year, and which noble sacrifice, in leaving her husband 
and three dear children,* she yesterday at the Monthly Meet- 
ing declared had yielded to her mind the rich reward of sweet 
peace and consolation. David Sands, with his wife Clemency, 
were in attendance. He is, as usual, a living example of de- 
dication, in fervent labor in the work of the ministry — but his 
voice more weak, and utterance less clear than formerly. He 
called often to see me and to chat about friends in your land: — 
among others, about thee and thine. Richard Jordan, who had 
been at our Yearly Meeting and now belongs to this, was my 
fellow passenger in the carriage in which I came hither. He is 
U^rother beloved." Enumerating some symptoms of failing health, 
she adds — " so that I conclude that the journey, the painful 
journey, cannot be far from its end. O saith my poor soul, 
that with it, all my pains and sorrows may also end. Pray for 
me, dear Chrissy, that my faith and patience may not fail — for 
verily both are closely tried. I am glad to hear though thou 
art failing in flesh, thy exertive faculties and general health are, 
considering thy years, not much impaired — and, what is pre- 
ferable to all these, that thou art alive in our blessed Master's 

* The youngest of these children, was only about nine months old 
when their dedicated mother commenced her mission of love to 
Friends and others. Being in her company, when on her return, but 
some time before she reached home, I heard her say she had not seen 
her own dear family for eighteen month.s. What a sacrifice in com- 
pliance with religious dutyl — Editor of Friends' Review. 



336 MEMORIALS OF 

service, and dedicated thereto. May Grace, Mercy and Peace 
from God the Father, be with us, and abound, through Jesus 
Christ our Lord forever and ever, is the prayer of thy poor and 
almost worn out fellow traveller, 




" N.York 5th mo. 31st — 1807. The Yearly Meeting here con- 
cluded 6th day at noon. Upon the whole it was a solid time 
throughout, though some instances of weakness were felt. R. 
Jordan, D. Sands, &c., had large communications in the pub- 
lic meetings. I hope I had a little share." 

" I staid," she notes, " with J. and B. A. till the 15th of 6th 
mo : when I went with Thomas Eddy in his carriage to his 
house at Elizabeth Town, where my kind friends R. and C. 
Hartshorne came for me. After pausing two days with them, 
and making some visits at Rahway, R. H. took me to R Whites. 
Reached Burlington 6th day noon, and staid there over 1st day. 
On arriving at my habitation in Brook's Court, and finding it 
and all therein safe, I had abundant cause (as often before) to 
be thankful and to bless the Name of the Shepherd of Israel, 
whose mercies endure forever." 

7th mo. 26th. " I have been twice at meeting this day, and 
much comforted under the lively and consohng ministry of dear 
T. Scattergood." 

9th mo. 2d. " We have had a general visit of what is called 
infiuenza — so that very few in the city or country have 
escaped, though few cases have proved mortal. Some aged 
persons have died with it. It has been a serious matter, and I 
esteem it no less than a gentle shaking of the rod, from the 
same fatherly Hand who has often visited our poor city, both in 
mercy and in judgment. Oh that the inhabitants may now 
learn Righteousness." 



REBECCA JONES. 337 



To M. Allinson. 

Philadelphia, 2d fno. 1808. 

Dear Mary, — Thy sisterly communication of 14th inst. is 
very acceptable, though to hear of thy dear Mother's continued 
indisposition calls forth my renewed sympathy, but we may 
hope that as warm weather advances, like Thomas EUwood's 
Winter Tree, she " will bud again and shoot." I have been 
mostly kept at home this winter by the succession of damp 
weather, which was always unfriendly to my constitution, but 
particularly so since the painful debilitated state of my limbs, 
which are not sufficiently restored to be trusted any great 
length from Brook's court. Yet I am, I hope, humbly thankful 
that I have been mostly free from those rheumatic affections, 
and a desire is mostly cherished, that I may receive the pre- 
sent dispensation from our merciful Father, with due submission^ 
and become more worthy of His blessed care and protection, 
who hath done for and to me great things, and who knows 
best how to deal with me, a poor creature, for my good, both 
here and forever. I am sorry to hear that my dear fellow pil- 
grims G. and S. D. are suffering under bodily infirmities. I 
feel them often near to my best life, and rejoice in believing 
that the ancient of days will not leave them. 

By a late letter from M R — — I learn that my venerable 

friend Sarah Barney of Nantucket has closed her well spent 
life. She took sisterly notice of me, a poor stripling, half a 
century ago, and has been inflexible in her friendship ever since. 
I have loved her spirit, and her great example, and wish to 
follow it. 

^ if: ^ 1^ ^ 

See what a long letter I have written under perplexities, and 
by lamp light — so excuse all that wants it. I have nothing 
better at command just now — not even a promise to mend in 

29 



338 MEMORIALS OF 

future^ so let thy dear mother and sisters share in this and in 
the salutation of dear love, from a poor old fellow soldier, 



0^-i^ 



Having been engaged in deep travail and exercise in Bur- 
lington Meeting, as she entered the door of her friend Martha 
Allinson an engaging child, (R. J.'s namesake) came running 
to the door to meet her. R. J. took her in her arms, and press- 
ing her to her bosom, repeated the following lines with a charm 
of voice and manner which impressed the minds of those pre- 
sent far more than the narration can interest our readers. 

'Tis this — 'tis Innocence thy bosom cheers — 
This calms thy troubles, this dispels thy fears — 
This spreads o'er all its beautifying rays, 
Makes every object, every plaything please. 
This, while less things a guilty breast can awe, 
Gives music to a key and beauty to a straw." 

In the first month of the year 1809, died her valued friend 
John Teas — an upright man — a self sacrificing Philanthropist 
— and a sincere Friend. la the Yellow Fever, during succes- 
sive years, he performed those painful and hazardous services 
to humanity which arq, likely to be owned as done unto Him 
by the great Example; who " went about doing good." On 
various occasions he aided R. Jones in carrying out her schemes 
of benevolence. Although the state of her health at the time 
scarcely warranted the effort, she went to the funeral, and was 
largely drawn forth in testimony, opening with the text, " Speak 
3-0 comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her war- 
fare is accomplished," &c. — directing the discourse principally 
to his widow, and affecting most of the company to tears. 

In a letter to Wm. Rotch, 4th mo. 22d, 1811, after noting a 
confinement to her house from indisposition for near six months, 
she says, " and yet, to the praise of our ever adorable Helper, 



REBECCA JONES. 339 

who hath hitherto sustained and upheld ; I am at times enabled 
to set up my Ebenezer. Our Yearly Meeting ended on 7th day 
last. I have been enabled to attend all the sittings except four, 
and may say it was throughout a solemn and very large meet- 
ing. We had the company of dear Susanna Home, and of Ann 
Jessop from Carolina — and several from neighboring Yearly 
Meetings. The two named are going to that of New York. 
Among those who were able to attend thou wilt be pleased to 
hear of G. Dilhvyn, S. Smith, Benj. White, Thos. Scattergood, 
John Hoskins (now in his 84th year) Rebecca Wright, Leonard 
and Jane Snowdon, Sally Cresson, Ann Mifflin, &c., who nobly 
showed themselves alive in the best cause. Also Jacob Lindley, 
who has buried his wife Ruth Anna. M. Pleasants was out 
generally, and bears up admirably. My dear friend Catharine 
Howell, in her 74th year, after a long illness, was a few months 
since released from all sorrow and pain. Sarah Harrison is yet 
with us, struggling under infirmities and manifold trials, yet often 
favored to tell of the Lord's goodness. James Simpson, near 
three weeks ago, after a short illness, made a peaceful and happy 
close ; fully resigned, and quite sensible, telling those around 
him, " I am going," Lying down with his clothes on, and re- 
questing to be turned on the other side, he said, — it is done,"- — 
and ceased breathing. His remains were interred at Frankford 
amidst a large company of Friends and others. I could not but 
desire, " Let me die the death of the righteous," &c. 

T. Scattergood mentioned at our Monthly Meeting yesterday 
his prospect of attending the Yearly Meetings at New York and 
Rhode Island. Susanna Home and Mary Allinson are bound 
the same way, having Caleb Shreeve (a valuable friend of our 
meeting) for their charioteer. How T should rejoice to spend a 
little time among you at N. Bedford — but as that is not to be 
expected by me again, you must let me love you, as I do sin- 
cerely, and ask for the consolation of continued remembrance in 
your seasons of favor." 

" I have received an account," she notes, "of the peaceful and 
happy close of my truly dear friend, and companion in gospel 



340 MEMORIALS OF 

laborer in England, Christiana Hustler ; who, after a long illness, 
in the 80th year of her age, died at her country seat at Under- 
cliffe, Yorkshire, the 27th of 6th mo. 1811. And on the 14th 
of 8th mo. dear James Allinson died at his mother's house in 
Burlington, aged 33 years, leaving a precious wife and three 
children to lament their irreparable loss — whom may the Lord 
sustain!" 

No notes or letters bearing date in 1812 have been found. It 
appears that she attended at least a portion of the Yearly Meet- 
ing in the 4th month, and participated in its exercises, although 
in a very enfeebled state. We are informed that in one of its 
sittings she was eminently favored, drawing a comparison be- 
tween the state of the Church Militant and that of the Church 
Triumphant — expressing her belief that it was designed that there 
should be a travelling towards a nearer approximation to the 
latter whilst in this militant state. 

Philadelphia, the 1st day of the year, 1813. 
My endeared friend and sister Sarah Hustler : — 

I have been so long thy debtor that I hardly know how to be- 
gin the excuse which is necessary for omitting to answer thy 
letter of the 23d of 8th month last, and one from dear Martha 
Routh, both announcing the peaceful and favored end of thy 
honorable and precious mother, my truly near and dear com- 
panion, which deeply afflicted me, being at the time weak and 
low both in body and mind. Yet after nature was a little re- 
lieved, my soul craved that I might also die the death of the 
righteous, and my latter end be as sweet and as happy as hers. 
Yes, my dear, I well know some of her hidden conflicts, and that 
her soul's enemy sorely and frequently assailed her. But even 
then^ her head was covered in the day of battle, and for an hel- 
met, the hope of salvation was her and my secret rejoicing. Oh 
her love to the blessed cause, and to poor me, was wonderful, 
surpassing all temporal enjoyment ; — yea, we were knit as Jona- 
than and David — and now that a final separation has taken 
place, and she happily removed from " the noise of all archers," 



REBECCA JONES. 341 

where death is swallowed up in life, and hope in everlasting en- 
joyment, my soul worships in reverent thankfulness, and craves, 
for myself and for thee and thy dear brother, that walking 
humbly by the same rule, and minding the same thing, we may 
approve ourselves as followers together of the same Lord who 
hath led captivity captive, and given the like precious gifts, even 
to the rebellious. 

My spirit, whilst my pen is in motion, salutes thee. I am 
truly glad to hear of thy dedication to the service of the Most 
High, and I wish thee safely and wisely to move in faithfulness 
to every divine requisition, now in the time acceptable, that 
when reduced, as I at present am, (being nearly helpless and 
mostly confined to my chamber) thou mayest look back with 
humble confidence to the voice of blessed acquittal, " Let her 
alone, she hath done what she could," — which is sometimes, in 
boundless mercy, vouchsafed even to me. 

I am now in my 74th year, and so stiff and enfeebled, that I 
get out but seldom, and only to our North Meeting, with the help 
of an arm and my staff; yet in the humbling dealings of my 
blessed Master with me, I am provided with the comfort of my 
dear Bernice Allinson, who thou mayest remember married a 
precious young man about 7 years ago. They were happy in 
each other. They settled in New York, but after some years 
removed to this city. He has by his death left her a widow in- 
deed. Finding my powers giving way, this dear child has taken 
a neat house adjoining the one I live in, and a door communi- 
cating between our chambers, she has become my care-taker. 

Thou may'st have heard of the sudden and peaceful end of 
our dear friend Rebecca Wright (in her 75th year,) who after 
attending our Yearly Meeting, got home, and in a few days we 
received an invitation to her burial. She was an ornament and 
great example in society. In the last month, Phebe, wife of 
our honorable friend James Pemberton, departed this life. And 
dear Sarah Harrison, after struggling with much bodily weak- 
ness, and heavy, very heavy trials of various kinds, was hap- 
pily removed a few weeks since. These, with the peaceful close 

29* 



342 MEMORIALS OF 

of dear John Pemberton's widow, and the death of several young 
and promising plants about the same time, together with my de- 
bility and varied exercises, have sunk me so low, that I was not 
able to get to see any of them or their families ; but remained, 
a silent and secret mourner, in my own chamber, where I now 
sit thus conversing with thee. 

12th. I can give thee the pleasing information of dear Su- 
sanna Home's safe return from a long, trying journey to the 
westward — having had, throughout, for her steady companion, 
Mary AUinson of Burlington, a friend in the station of an Elder, 
and to whom S. Home seems as nearly united as I was to my 
beloved C. Hustler. Susanna and Mary, with T. Scattergood 
(with whom they quarter,) Samuel Emlen, &c., spent last sixth 
day with me in my chamber, and this day started on a visit to 
Bucks Quarter. They look bravely, but I told S. Home that 
her work not being done here, T dont yet see any opening for 
her return to her native land. Her services and example are 
truly satisfactory to us all. I hear that dear Stephen Grellet is 
in like manner beloved amongst you ; and by a letter to his valua- 
ble wife he was at and in the neighborhood of Undercliffe ; so 
thou must have been gratified, and I also am in hearing of it, 
for he is a brother beloved by me for the Work's sake. If thou 
hast opportunity, present him with the expression of my love. 

To dear M. Routh and to dear A. Alexander I wish thee to 
give the perusal of this letter, which must serve them as a proof 
of my sincere and undiminished love, and that I retain my wish 
to hear often from them ; for indeed, nothing but ability of sight 
is wanting, to them and thyself, often. To vjill is present, but 
how to perform J^??<i not. 

14th. I was so dim when I wrote the above, that I almost 
despaired ever finishing this letter ; but lam not easy without 
making another attempt. If I fail finally, I hope my dear B. 
will send it to thee. Dear Samuel Smith sends his love. He, 
by a late division of our large Monthly Meeting, is likely to be- 
come a member of the Monthly Meeting of Philadelphia, which 
is painful to us both, as we have always been fellow helpers to^ 



REBECCA JONES. 343 

gether in the Meeting for the Northern district for upwards of 
three score years, and are still in the unbroken bonds of the 
Gospel. And though all the three meetings have been much 
stripped of valuable members, the multitude that do attend, (and 
a large number of other professors) especially on first day 
mornings, have induced Friends of the Middle Meeting to build 
another house to the westward, which is nearly finished. And 
materials are collecting for one to the northward. So that like 
London, we shall abound in houses, whether they are all filled 
or not. 

Although it is a low time in general, yet, in acknowledgment 
of the goodness and mercy of the blessed Shepherd of Israel, I 
may say, that a hopeful succession of true burden bearers is 
coming forward, and a living hope is raised that the standard of 
Truth and Righteousness will be supported, and the day ap- 
proaching spoken of by the prophet, when many shall run to and 
fro, and knowledge in divine things be increased. So be it, 
saith my soul. 

Dear G. and S. Dillwyn still reside at Burlington. G. is 
especially strong in the exercise of his gift, and as skilful a 

workman as ever. 

* * * * 

20th. By a letter from S. Home, she expects to finish her visit 
in Bucks Quarter so as to be in this city next week, when I ap- 
prehend she, with T. Scattergood, will mention their prospect 
of a visit to the families of Pine street Monthly Meeting. In 
which case they will then have visited all the families in this 
city, and very acceptably, as indeed their gospel labors have 
been, here and elsewhere in our land. Our friends M. Swett, 
Charity Cook, Ann Jessup, Benjamin White, Henry Hull, Wil- 
liam Jackson, Richard Jordan, and Mehetabel Jenkins, who have 
labored amongst you, are all living, though some are growing 
infirm, and especially dear Nicholas Wain and Phebe Speak- 
man, who are evidently breaking down—but none more so than 
thy sincerely attached and aged sister in the fellowship of the 
Gospel of peace and salvation. R. J. 



344 MEMORIALS OF 

CHAPTER XVII. 
1813—1817. 

Typl;ius Fever. — Prayer Green Street Meeting.— -Attends Twelfth 

Street Meeting. — Is at North Meeting for the last time. — Death of T. 
Scattergood and message to Susanna Home — Letter to Sarah Hust- 
ler — Intimation respecting S. Home's arrival in England. — Warning 
to a Minister. — Her last letter to S. Hustler. — Bernice Allinson's ac- 
count of R. J.'s death — Reflections by Enoch Lewis. — John Cox. — 
Passages from her Will, and Concluding Remarks. 

In the early part of the year 1813 she was prostrated by a 
typhus fever ; and although she was raised, contrary to the ex. 
pectations of her friends, from this protracted illness, she never 
fully recovered from the effects of it. During the most critical 
stage of this fever her utterance was almost wholly in prayer or 
rehgious testimony, or exhortation. A valued friend who called 
at the adjoining house to enquire concerning her health, hearing 
her thus engaged, paused at the front door, and said in speaking 
of it, that the strains were so angelic that he thought them the 
prelude of approaching dissolution. But few of her expressions 
have been preserved. On one occasion she said to those who 
were in her apartment : — 

" Oh draw near to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of 
the God of Jacob. He is good and worthy to lean upon — he 
is rich in mercy." And afterwards, addressing herself to the 
Father of mercies, she spoke at intervals as follows : 

" We are sensible of increasing weakness and debility. Grant 
that thy Spirit may be near ! May thy invisible Power pre- 
serve thy people and thy children ! Oh, enlarge our hearts-^ 
our souls 1***1 have been much exercised in mind for 
several days past that thy servants and handmaidens may have 
no dependence but on thy mercy. Oh be pleased to be near 
in these times of trial. Make their wilderness to blossom as the 
rose, and to flourish as thy garden of Eden. Keep the few in 
this place in thy fear. Bring down the lofty seats of man. Say 



REBECCA JONES. 345 

to the North, give up ; to the South, come forth, that judgment 
may be brought unto truth — for thou canst make a little one a 
great one, and a small one a strong one. None ever trusted in 
the Lord in vain. Thou wilt never leave or forsake thy people, 
if they do not first leave thee. Raise them. Oh thou God of 
Power, raise them as from the very stones of the street, to 
praise thy great and excellent name where there will be no 
more sliding, and bring them to the general assembly and church 
of the first born whose names are written in Heaven. * * 

" All glory be to thee Oh God, and the dear Son of thy love, 
the Lamb immaculate ; not only now, but for ever and for ever 
more, Amen." 

During the last five years of her life she was very much con- 
fined to her house, and for three years mostly to her chamber, 
which was often a scene both of interest and instruction to the 
many who resorted thither, as well as to those whose privilege 
it was daily to share her society, and to minister to her wants : 
yet during this time she was a few times out of her own house, 
and twice at meeting. 

When the establishment of a monthly meeting in the Northern 
Liberties was decided upon, and a new division of districts was 
also to join many of the valuable members of the North Meeting 
to the one held in Arch street, a friend came to R. J.'s chamber, 
and with tears poured out her troubled feelings on the occasion, 
expressing a fear that there would be only a poor handful left, 
hardly sufficient for the maintainance of a Monthly Meeting. 
R. J. leaned back in her easy chair, and sat silent awhile, with 
an expression of holy serenity upon her countenance, which is 
described as angelic. At length she said, that she had been re- 
curring to the time when North Meeting was established, and 
she believed that a vine was planted which would not be de- 
stroyed ; but that although the branches might die down to the 
ground, the root would be kept alive, and sprout and flourish 
again. 

She had not been able to see the propriety of the establish- 
ment of Green street meeting, and more than once said that she 



346 MEMORIALS OF 

felt no inclination to attend it. Toward the Western District, 
however, she felt an attraction, the house on Twelfth street 
having also been recently built. A friend having a desire that 
she should make an effort to attend the two new meetings, es- 
pecially Green street, offered the use of her carriage. Early 
the next First day morning she sent word that she would like to 
go to the Western .meeting. The husband of the friend referred 
to, came with his carriage, and when they had entered the 
vehicle, B. A., (her constant companion) informed him that they 
wished to go to the Western meeting. He replied, " I under- 
stand — my wife told me." As he continued driving to the north- 
ward, he made a similar reply to repeated intimations, and at 
length stopped before the gate of the Green street house, having 
been so impressed with the belief that this was their destination, 
that he could scarcely admit a different idea when R. J., who 
had sat with her eyes closed, said, " I've nothing to do with 
Green street. I wish to go to the Western meeting." They 
arrived late, and it was with considerable difficulty that she was 
got into the meeting house, and Samuel W. Fisher stepping 
across the house, took her arm, and helped to convey her to the 
head of the meeting. There were then present, Sarah Matthews, 
supported by pillows, and Samuel Smith. The former was 
never at meeting again ; Samuel Smith and Rebecca Jones 
only once, which was, with each, at North Meeting. Samuel 
Smith spoke very sweetly, and as much at length as was usual 
with him. Sarah Matthews, unable to rise from her seat, was 
favored to communicate a lively and instructive testimony ; and 
R. Jones, (also keeping her seat — unable, through debility to 
kneel,) appeared in very solemn supplication. The next, and 
last time of R. J.'s being at meeting, was on a First day morn- 
ing, at the house on Keys' Alley, where, upon her bended knee, 
she raised in a memorable manner, the voice of praise and thanks- 
giving, ending (as was not unusual with her,) with these words, 
" To thee, and to the dear Son of thy love, be glory and honor, 
now and forever more." And it is worthy of note, that in her 
addresses to the throne of Grace, she seemed never unmindful 



REBECCA JONES. 347 

of the Saviour's gracious words : " Whatsoever ye shall £^sk the 
Father in my name^ he will give it you. Hitherto ye have 
asked nothing w my name: ask and ye shall receive." " At that 
day ye shall ask in my nameP 

It will remembered that the decease of Thomas Scattergood 
took place in the year 1814, after the erection, and before the 
opening of the Green street house, and that there was an undue 
anxiety among some, as to the meeting to which he should be 
attached. The following is an extract from a letter which was 
written at R. J.'s request, to Susanna Home, (who was T. Scat- 
tergood's child in the Truth, and afterwards his intimate associ- 
ate in the work of the Gospel) and which being read to R. J. 
previous to its being sent, received her sanction. 

" During his illness, as our dear R. J. was ruminating upon 
the apprehended departure from this earthly tabernacle, of her 
beloved friend T. S., the passage of Scripture came before her 
which speaks of Michael the Arch-angel, who, contending with 
Satan, and disputing about the dead body of Moses, which had> 
been, through Divine interference, taken away, brought against 
him no railing accusation, but said, " The Lord rebuke thee !" 
The application in her mind seemed thus. Considerations rela- 
tive to the division of North meeting having somewhat agitated 
the minds of many friends, and T. S. being situated near the 
probable line between it and the newly established meeting, 
there was considerable anxiety as to the meeting to which he 
should belong : and that therefore, his Master was about to re- 
move the cause of disputation, by assuming, in a manner awfully 
striking, the right of decision Himself; whereby rebuke was ad- 
ministered by the all-wise Controller of events, to that spirit 
which actuates to an undue reliance on human aid. She also 
mentioned that since his close took place, this passage had been, 
in reference to the deceased, illustrated in her view in a manner 
in which it had not been before : ' They that be wise shall shine 
as the brightness of the firmament, and they that turn many to 
righteousness, as the stars for ever and ever.' The application 
of which was, that as the brightness of the firmament, though 



348 MEMORIALS OF 

always perceptible, is at some times more luminous than at others, 
so his company whilst in the body had been to her always more 
or less cheering and encouraging. The fixed stars being placed 
farther from our sight, yet shining with a continual and undi- 
minished brightness, conveyed to her a lively representation of 
that unalterable and perfect state of happiness in which he was 
now immutably pkced." 



R. Jones to Sarah Hustler. 

Philadelphia, Sd mo. Sth, 1815. 

My Dearly Beloved Sarah. — Thro' the tender mercy of 
" the Lord who healeth," I am continued in this probationary 
state, and have received thy kind long letter by our dear friend 
Stephen Grellet, who has, in good health and in peace of mind, 
arrived among us, and has made me several visits in my 
chamber, with his amiable wife. He has given me a particular 
account of my friends, and of thee in a precious feeling manner, 
which has been like marrow to my bones, wherefore I thought I 
would tell thee so. Bernice also (who with her three dear lambs 
are a great comfort to me in my old age) begging me to write to 
thee once more, thinking thou wilt excuse all defects. 

Oh how I have loved thy dear parents and my ever dear 
friends John and C. Hustler, who, being delivered from pain &c., 
on earth, are joyfully united, in the realms of bliss, forever and 
ever ; and have left two children to represent them here, in per- 
son and pursuits, I trust to the comfort of many who have their 
parents in fresh remembrance. Be encouraged, my dear Sally 
— thou hast put thy hand to the plough, — don't look back — but 
look unto Him who hath called thee, and will be with thee, even 
unto the end of the world. Thy dear brother will be a co-worker 
with thee, and will partake of the reward. Tell him so with my 
love, which I desire also to thy sister Jane. 

I suppose thou hast heard how we are reduced in number 
since I last wrote thee. Since then dear N. Wain has gone. 



REBECCA JONES. 349 

Our North Meeting has divided — two new houses are built. 
Dear S. Smith remains a living monument of divine love and 
life. Salute dear M. Routh, A. Alexander, Wra. Tuke, J, and 
E. Hoyland and my other acquaintances as they fall in thy way. 
Give my love to E. Coggeshall, and tell her to do all that her 
hand finds to do. My love to dear S. Home — her friends at 
Burlington are well. Thou canst hardly tell how we miss our 
dear T. Scattergood — but all is well with him. 

I must be short. Thou knowest I used to write a long letter, 
but now let it suffice to say, lam patiently waiting till my change 
comes, and this may be my last. In best love I remain thy very 
affectionate and nearly united friend. 



^^2^ 



VVhilst confined by her infirmities to the house, it was her 
practice to have the Bible placed upon a table beside her during 
the absence of the family at meeting. It frequently however 
remained un-opened, her mind being gathered with the assem- 
bled Church, reverently waiting upon the Father of spirits. 

In the house which she occupied for the last two years of her 
life, her window was opposite the women's gate of the North 
Meeting — thus when the doors were open she could from her 
seat in her chamber recognize many individuals m meetmg. 
Her faithful and beloved Leonard Snowdon, was in the regular 
practice of visiting her on first day evenings, and giving her an 
account, so far as he had been able to gather it, of the 
different meetings on that day and during the week ; she hav- 
ing this evidence that she had passed from death unto life, that 
her love to the brethren, though she could no longer mingle in 
their assemblies, was strong, — as was also her interest in all 
thai; concerned the cause of the ever blessed Truth. He being 

with her upon a first day evening after the departure for 

30 



350 MEMORIALS OF 

England of Susanna Home.* on her return from a religious 
visit to this country, she observed to Leonard, " In my silent 
meditation this morning I had a view of Susanna Home in a 
meeting in her own land." A remarkable coincidence may be 
mentioned here, not merely from its interesting nature, but as 
shewing the union of spirit which is sometimes permitted to 
disciples, and as illustrative and confirmatory of the doctrine 
of the immediate communication of the Divine Spirit with His 
creatures, of which her life had afforded many illustrations. 
George Dillwyn, in a meeting at Burlington the same morning, 
after a lively testimony, and near the close of the meeting, 
agam rose, and said that he " felt more than a liberty to inform 
his friends that he believed our beloved friend Susanna 
Home was now safely landed on her native shore." The 
constant companion of S. H. m her visits in this land was 
oresent at the latter meetmg, and next morning letters between 
her and B. A. passed each other on the river, giving ac- 
counts of the two remarkable incidents. When the letter was 
read to G. Dillwyn, which gave information of the view afford- 
ed to R. J. he saidi " It is not the first time that our 
thoughts have flowed in the same channel." 

S. Home arrived in Liverpool, 8th Mo. 5th, 1813, after an 
unusually short passage, — The first confirmation of the impres- 
sions above mentioned was from a young man immediately 
on his arrival from that port. Though not in the practice of 
attending the meetings of Friends, he had in this land listened 
with interest to the ministry of S. H. He had been to England 

* No transatlantic friend, probably, within the memory of those 
now upon the stag:e, has travelled in this land with more ere- 
neral acceptance thaa this dear friend, — (now Susanna Bigg.) Her 
ministry was sound, practical and persuasive, and her private -walk 
very exemplary. She arrived in 1810, and remained on our Con- 
tinent nearly three years, during which time, accompanied by Mary 
Allinson, she visited most of the meetings, and very many of the 
families of Friends in America. She returned to England in 1813, 
leaving a sweet memorial in the hearts of her fellow disciples. A 
large proportion of those who knew and appreciated her, have enter- 
ed before her into the fruition of that rest which remaineth for the 
people of God. 



REBECCA JONES. 35I 

and being about to return, having been detained fronn his 
voyage by contrary winds, he went to Liverpool, where seeing 
some friends going to meeting he followed them and there he 
saw and heard S. H. On his reaching Philadelphia he gave 
the information of her arrival before the reception of letters 
which came in the same ship. 

It was near this time that she received a visit from a minister 
whose subsequent declension gave cause of mourning to his 
friends. He was on his feet to depart when she began to 
address him. He resumed his seat, and listened to a heart 
tendering communication, in the course of which she laid 
before him, with striking distinctness, two prospects of his 
future career and condition, dependent upon his watchful faith- 
fulness or the reverse. And so awful was the picture which 
she presented, of the consequences which would attend him 
if disobedient to the Divine Monitor, that he wept audibly, and 
a friend who was present, and who retains a vivid remem- 
brance of the scene, was also greatly affected. A regard to 
individual character forbids us to raise the veil from the affect- 
ing realization of her worst forebodings. 



R. J. TO Sarah Hustler. 

Philadelphia Ath mo. 20th, 1816. 
My dear friend S. Hustler, — I ought to have made a more 
quick answer to thy very acceptable lines by our dear Stephen 
Grellet, but I can hardly persuade myself that thou can read 
such a scrawl, and I can do no better. Thou may'st know by 
this that I love thee for thy own and thy dear Mother's sake, wish- 
ing thee to know that I am still in the body, a miracle to my- 
self and a wonder to my friends. I am quite lame, from many- 
falls and hurts on my limbs, and though it is our Yearly Meet- 
ing I am sitting alone in my room, and have thee, in fresh love 
brought into view. And, praying for help for myself, I have 



352 MEMORIALS OF 

felt thy and dear John's best welfare interwoven in my solici- 
tude. May that God who gave thy mother as an helpmeet to 
me in your land, be near to me in this, and crown my poor 
soul at last with peace, is all my desire. 

Our Yearly Meeting has been thus far favored, and will con- 
clude to-morrow: — but E. Coggeshall did not get here. I hear 
she is peacefully at home. Our S. Grellet is also at home, pre- 
paring to go on another errand, and will I hope be mercifully- 
preserved, even among the West India Islands. He is a tender 
brother of mine, and has a precious wife. Thou wilt have 
heard of the short illness and blessed close of dear Thomas 
Scattergood. He was near to my best life, and is only gone a 
little before j[)Oor me, and rests now from his arduous labors. A 
stripping day has come over us in this land, and many lively 
Ministers have gone from works to rewards ; so that part of 
the vineyard is solitary. But a lively hope is raised, that a 
succession is preparing to receive the garment of Elijah, and 
bear tidings of good things, as in days of old. Great and mar- 
vellous are his works, can my soul say, just and true are all 
his ways. For even my present bodily affliction, will, I trust, 
work for my further refinement, and the joy of the Lord be my 
strength in the final giving up of my accounts. 

Let M. Routh and A. Alexander know that I love them in the 
covenant of love and life, and long to hear from them. * * 

Our dear Samuel Smith is weak, and gets very little out, but 
is evidently owned as a sheep of the favored fold, who is wait- 
ing for the summons, " Come ye blessed of my Father ^ Dont 
forget thy old friend — and let me hear from thee once more. I 
am nearly blind, near seventy seven years of age, and thy sin- 
cere friend and sister in the bonds of the gospel, 




REBECCA JONES. 353 

As increasing and certain tokens were given of the approach- 
ing dissolution of " the earthly house," — the union between 
" Naomi and Ruth" was beautiful to behold. In one sense in- 
deed, their relative position was changed — for the child had 
become the tender and watchful guardian of one who had been 
" a succorer of many and of her also." — The compiler well re- 
members on an occasion of his Mother's illness, the distress and 
anxiety of R. Jones, as she queried what would become of her, 
should her B. be taken first — to which the invalid replied, that 
she had " faith to believe that it would not be permitted." He 
also freshly remembers being summoned by R. J. to partake 
with her of her last meal, and the sweetness of her countenance 
when 

" We knew that the hour was drawing nigh 

To fulfil every fearful token — 
When the silver cord should loosen its tie, 

And the golden bowl be broken." 

The following brief notes relative to her last illness and 
closing scene, are from the pen of her beloved B. A. and were 
written shortly after the solemn event which they record. 

"3d mo. 30th, 1817. After the morning meeting, Mary 
Smith, (widow of Samuel) called to see my dear R. J., who 
seemed better, than for a long time before. They had long 
been united in the bonds of the Gospel, and were on this occa- 
sion remarkably engaged in encouraging each other to hold out 
a little longer ; R. J. saying, " If we were but permitted to join 
his purified spirit (alluding to dear S. Smith) it will be enough." 
In the afternoon several others called ; — she was very pleasant, 
and enjoyed their company. One friend remarked, that she 
had not seen her so much like herself for several years. — That 
night she was taken with a complaint in her bowels, attended 

with great pain. She had a very restless nieht, but in the 

30* 



354 MEMORIALS OF 

morning slept until near eleven o'clock when she took her 
breakfast, and, being dressed for the last time, seemed pretty 
comfortable till about three o'clock P. M. when the complaint 
returned. In less than two hours her strength was so gone 
that she could not stand when raised upon her feet. My sister 
and myself both staid in her room that night. After being up 
many times, and enduring great pain, she was seized with a 
severe spasm which threatened immediate suffocation, from 
which she was relieved by throwing from her stomach a con- 
siderable quantity of bile. Her voice which had for a long 
time been quite impaired by repeated paralytic affections, was 
for several hours quite gone. Towards day she fell into a gentle 
sleep and awoke refreshed, her voice being nearly as intelligible 
as for some months past. About eleven o'clock she desired to 
get up and sit in her easy chair, saying, " It is meeting day, 
and it is likely some friends will call in." — The restlessness 
attendant on her disease had so increased, that one of us was 
constantly employed in changing her position. 

The mental powers in some degree yielded to the infirmities of 
the body which for years had been great ; yet on religious sub- 
jects her faculties had always continued clear and bright, so that 
her counsel on important occasions was still sought and valued. 

About the eighth of the 4th month, the disease assumed a 
new aspect. The fore part of each night was most trying, she 
being favored to sleep a little in the morning. Early in the 
night of the 9th, she seemed in as great anguish of body and 
mind as could be endured, which continued to be the case for 
several hours. My mind had oflen been permitted to partake 
of her mingled cup, — but the wormwood and the gall seemed 
all that was now offered. My spirit having, during this night 



REBECUA JONES. 355 

of suffering, been enabled more than ever before, to enter into 
feeling with her tried tossed mind, — was permitted after the dear 
sufferer had experienced some refreshment from sleep toward 
the morning of the 10th, to partake with her in the enjoy- 
ment of Divine good. She spoke of the solemn prospect 
of the final change being near, and in a most impressive 
manner, said, " Not by works of righteousness which I 
have done, but according to His Mercy he saveth us, by the 
washings of regeneration, and the renewing of the Holy Ghost ! 
After having done all, we are but unprofitable servants !" After 
this she was not able to express much. Repeated paralytic 
affections occasioned a difficulty of utterance and of swallowing. 
During the last few hours, she made many efforts to speak but 
was unable. It was extremely trying to behold one, on whose 
tongue so long had dwelt the law of kindness, now, on the con- 
fines of Time, vainly endeavoring to communicate the feelings 
that pervaded her mind, which appeared to be unclouded. About 
11 o'clock Elizabeth Foulke came to see her, and after sitting 
awhile in silence said that her mind had that morning been 
brought into deep sympathy with her, and that now she was 
enabled to rejoice in the full assurance that the tossed mind 
was nearing the port of eternal rest ; that death had no sting 
and the grave no victory. Dear R. J. raised her clasped hands 
but could not articulate. E. F, descended the stairs, and was 
about departing, when the nurse announced a visible change in 
her countenance. On my bending over her, she put her arms 
around me. I gently raised her — she made another great but 
unavailing effort to speak, — drew several hard breaths — then 
breathed gently for a few minutes — and, in the last effort of 
Nature, closed her mouth and eyes, and a sweet smile played 



356 MEMORIALS OF 

over her noble countenance which was indeed beautiful in death. 
— The immediate language of my mind was, *' Well done good 
and faithful servant — enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." She 
was interred in Friends' ground on Mulberry street, on the 
morning of the Select Yearly Meeting. Mary Nafftel, (from 
England) then on a religious visit to friends in this country, 
attended the funeral and bore a lively testimony to her devoted 
labors both in this land and in Great Britain, in promoting the 
spread of the everlasting gospel — saying that on hearing of her 
departure the language that saluted her mind was " Well done 
good and faithful servant — enter thou into the joy of thy Lord !" 
Geo. Dillwyn was also one of those who spoke at the funeral. 
The Select members went from the grave into the meeting house, 
with minds solemnized in the recollection that one who had for 
more than fifty years stood as one of the Pillars in the Church 
militant, was now removed to the church triumphant m Heaven. 
There had not been any left, since the decease a few years 
previous of James Pemberton, who was a member of that meet- 
ing at the time when she was introduced." 

[In introducing the following remarks by Enoch Lewis, the Compiler 
takes occasion to acknowledge his grateful sense of the value of the 
notes (by which this volume is enriched,) which have been furnished 
by him as Editor of Friends' Review. The notes by E. L. are indicated 
by his editorial signature.] 

Although Rebecca Jones had passed the period which was 
formerly considered as the utmost limit of human life, yet the 
removal of such a pillar of the church, even at this mature age, 
was naturally and justly productive of solemn reflections. What 
changes had occurred, both in the world at large and in our 
religious society, during the time embraced by her memory ! 
When she reached the period of womanhood, a monarch, who 
was a native of Germany, held the dominion of Great Britain 
and a considerable portion of North America, She had heard 



REBECCA JONES. 357 

the appalling rumors of Indian massacre on the frontiers of 
the peaceful province in which she was born, and there wit- 
nessed the bitter fruits of the injustice dispensed by her country- 
men to the natives of the forest. She had seen the American 
people rise up in opposition to the metropolitan power, and the 
city of her birth occupied by a hostile force. Thus the land 
selected by the benevolent Penn, as the seat of a holy experi- 
ment^ where a government might be established on christian 
principles, as a model to succeeding generations, was rendered, 
by the vices and follies of man, a scene of sanguinary conflicts. 
She had heard from beyond the Atlantic, the rumors of wars 
and commotions ; the throne of the Capets overturned ; the 
nominal master of thirty millions of people led to the block ; 
a military democracy erected on the ruins of the monarchy ; 
that democracy itself subverted and an imperial government 
erected in its stead ; the European continent, throughout its 
length and breadth, inundated with contending armies ; and the 
man before whom the greatest potentate had trembled, consigned 
as a captive to a rocky island in the southern Atlantic. These 
events might well suggest the reflection how transient and 
evanescent is the greatness of a world, which thus passeth 
away. How delusive the hope of those who make the flesh 
their confidence, and trust their prospect of happiness upon 
any thing which the world can aflbrd. 

In her own religious society, numerous and important changes 
had arisen. Those with whom she engaged in religious service 
in the morning of her day, and with whom she often took sweet 
counsel, were nearly all numbered with the dead. Of her first 
companions in the meeting of Ministers and Elders, not one 
was left. What solemnly melancholy, yet hardly painful con- 
siderations must she often have experienced, when near the 
close of h-er course, she reviewed the exercises, and the com- 
panions of her early days. As the faithful and valuable labor- 
ers of that time to whom she was accustomed to look for ad- 
vice and support, in her varied trials, rose up in vivid remem- 
brance, the recollection was still at hand, that their voices would 



358 MEMORIALS OF 

be heard no more ; yet no doubt tbese recollections were often 
attended by the consoling assurance, that they were resting 
from their labors, and that their works would still follow them. 



CONCLUSION. 

The consideration of her latter end, having been present with 
her through life, she was careful to keep a will in readiness, 
and her last will and testament bears date about a year before 
her decease. — " Considering" — she says in the preamble, " the 
uncertainty of Time, and that many are suddenly called hence, 
I do think it commendable and necessary not only to endeavor 
with the assistance of Divine Grace to be inwardly prepared 
for so awful a change, but also to settle my outward effects, 
with which the Lord hath been pleased to bless me, as I would 
they should be." 

In this document, after leaving various legacies, among which 
is one to her friends Ann Warder and Anne Stewardson, in 
trust for poor friends of North Meeting, she constitutes B. A. 
her sole residuary legatee, and she concludes in these words : 

" In confirmation hereof after acknowledging with gratitude 
and in humility of soul the tender and infinite mercy of the 
Lord Almighty, which has in numberless instances been sig- 
nally vouchsafed and displayed for my redemption from sin 
and the wages due thereunto, and his preservations and deliver- 
ances by sea and by land ; hoping, through the merits of my 
blessed Saviour and Redeemer Jesus Christ, to be admitted into 
his holy kingdom when I shall put off this earthly tabernacle ; 
and in peace and unity with his Church under every name, 

Rebecca Jones. 

Signed sealed &c., the 9th of ye 3d month 1816." 

It would be unjust in her Biographer to omit transcribing the 
following passage from the said will. 

" I give to George Dillwyn, Samuel Emlen, and John Cox 



REBECCA JONES. 359 

of Burlington, and Leonard Snowdon and Thomas Stewardson 
of this city, in trust, all my books and papers of every kind to 
be carefully inspected, (and if there be any thing therein that 
may be of disadvantage to any person alive or deceased that 
they may be destroyed ;) together with all my Diaries and 
Journals, &c., and it is my further request that no written testi- 
mony or account may be issued concerning me, — I having often 
been pained under the reading of such marks of distinction." 

A portion of the manuscripts thus entrusted to the wise and 
excellent men above named, had, previous to her decease, been 
presented by R. J. to B. A. without restriction. The memoir of 
her convincement given at the commencement of this volume, ■ 
was retained in their possession, until John Cox, being the sole 
survivor,* delivered it to B. A. declaring it to be her property. 

• Language would fail the Compiler in attempting to portray the 
character, or express the worth of this true Israelite, illustrious Friend 
and patriarchal christian Gentleman, 'i'he following extract from a 
letter, published as an obituary shortly after his removal from the mi- 
litant state, will not be thought, by any one, to be over-wrought. 
Those who knew the Sage of oxmead will scarcely expect ever to 
" look upon his like again," — or to meet with any memorial of his 
worth which shall equal their own exalted but just estimate. He died 
at his delightful abode Oxmbad, Burlington, N. J. 4th Mo. 5th, 1847, 
in the 94th year of his age. W. J. A. 

" By the Intelligencer of the 10th inst, I learn that my dear friend 
John Cox is released from the cares and sufferings of this probationary 
state. It is now more than fifty years since I was introduced into his 
society; since which I have often been in his company, both in the 
social circle and in the house of worship ; and I can truly say, that I 
never had the pleasure of knowing a man who combined in his char- 
acter, more perfectly, the Gentleman and the Christian. In social 
intercourse with his friends he was affable and cheerful — sometimes 
even sprightly — yet always dignified; never for a moment forgetting 
the importance of the station to which he was called as an ambassador 
for Christ, nor indulging in any thing inconsistent with that station. 
His ministry was exceedingly interesting ; his language clear, chaste, 
and elegant, but without the least mark of affectation. In prayer he 
was very weighty, appearing to be deeply impressed with the awfulness 
of public supplication, in which he not only manifested a deep rever- 
ence for the Divine Majesty, but made his hearers participate in the 
same feeling. I shall never forget my sense of his ministry; even 
when I was a youth, how my mind was absorbed in deep and solemn 
attention, and made to feel the Divine power and authority, with which 
at such times he was clothed. It may truly be said of his ministry, that 
it was * in the demonstration of the Spirit and of power.' He was gath- 



360 MEMORIALS OF 

It will be seen that it found its way to the press without the 
consent of B. A., notwithstanding the caution prefixed — a tran- 
script having been taken by some one to whom it had been 
loaned. 

It will be a question with some, how far the publication of her 
biography, in violation of her request, is to be justified. — With 
others, the query will arise, how far it was within her province 
to withhold, from those who personally knew her not, and from 
posterity, the lustre of her example. It is not to be doubted that 
her humility (which was the means of her preservation) inspired 
this request — but let it be remembered that although she had 
" often been pained under the reading of such marks of distinc- 
tion," when she felt that the creature was thereby unduly exalt- 
ed, — yet none could place a higher value than she did upon 
memorials of the blessed dead, who had died in the Lord. Wit- 
ness her introduction to the Womens' Yearly Meeting, of the 
memorials issued in England respecting Sarah R. Grubb ;*' and 
abundant confirmation is before us as we write, of the pains 
which she took to collect and to preserve productions of the kind. 
Having surrendered herself, body, soul and spirit, that she might 
do the work of an evangelist and win souls to Christ, her modest 
shrinking from publicity, and from human applause, however 
binding it might be felt to be, by her executors and the trustees of 
her papers, could not be expected forever to operate upon those 
who might successively become possessed of them ; — and the ques- 
tion appeared to be, whether a compilation should be made by those 
whose knowledge and interest are of a personal character, and 
who have an ownership in her memory, or whether the work 
should be left for a future collector of materials, to whom much 
that has now been gathered must of necessity be inaccessible, 
and by whom, probably other portions, of merely private inter- 
est, might have been inserted. 

ered to his everlasting rest ' m a full age, like as a shock of corn Com- 
eth in his season,' and his memory will long remain as a sweet odor 
with his survivors." 

* See page 194. 



REBECCA JONES. 361 

In short, — she was, as we doubt not, influenced by a sense of 
duty, to commit to writing much that is worthy to be preserved. 
With all her sensitiveness on this subject, (altho' she has been 
known to take them in her hands for the purpose,) she had not 
been permitted to burn these papers— being submitted to some 
of the wisest men in the Society, they did not venture to destroy 
them — preserved (tho' widely scattered, and without a view to 
their compilation) for more than thirty years, they have been 
placed by their proper owner in the hands of the present Com- 
.piler. — It has been believed to be right to arrange them in a 
permanent form for the satisfaction and benefit of others ; and 
if this judgment be erroneous, it has been an honest error, and 
it is sincerely desired that it may be over-ruled for good. 



THE END. 



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